Is it legal for schools to use exercise as punishment?

Question

My son came home from school complaining that his PhysEd teacher makes the kids do physical activity until they collapse as a punishment. Is this legal? He is 11 years old and in the 6th grade

I forgot to mention that it was not my son that got in trouble, only a few of the kids, but they all had to take part in the punishment.

Answer 1

Your question is about the legality of the punishment.
It looks like you're about to sue the PE teacher or the school.
I'm not a lawyer but an educator.

I think the PE teacher has carried his punishment too far, in this instance.

It's ok to make the kids run a few rounds to make them remember not to commit a similar offence again: but then he must be careful to check out the physical condition of the kids before doing that.

My own philosophy in punishing kids is : treat every child like my own. Would I punish these kids the same way if they were my own ? That way, I ensure I'm never cruel or over-drive my punishment.

You may want to bring up the matter to the School Principal.

Answer 2

No it is not legal. Because so many coaches have done it to the extreme, and sent their students to the hospital, at least at the state level, Texas has outlawed this type of punishment. There are times that I wish in moderation we could use it as punishment, such as running an extra couple of laps. Punishing the whole class is inappropriate, but not against any laws, that I know of. It could be against policies at the campus or district level, but that would be set locally.

I would complain to the principal about this situation and see if he/she takes action, if not, move up the chain!

Answer 3

If they are 'that' out of shape, it would be better for that person to exercise and get better, as to make it not a detriment to one's own health! Illegal might be something like making someone with an already known injury, still do an exercise, THAT would be unjust. But in general, it is usually accepted as "fine" for punishment.

Answer 4

It could be a problem especially if there is a child in the class who has a heart condition. Deffinetly take it up with the principal or even the schoolboard. Though excessive physical excerise is hard, it's better than the old days of the strap or the ruler!

Answer 5

I've heard of sports coaches who do this, but have not had phys ed teachers who use exercise as punishment. Maybe you should get together with some of the other parents and complain to the principal/school board.

Answer 6

taking it to the point of collapsing is a bit too much. i doubt if any sensible teacher would do it.
i understand ur concern as a parent. but this is a good way of punishing. childhood obesity is an epidemic now. physical activity eeds to be encouraged by teachers and parents.

Answer 7

I remember when I was in Physical Education in school, my teacher would have the students run a lap if they weren't listening to him, misbehaving, etc. But by the looks of what you're saying, I think it isn't just running a lap. You should bring this matter up to the principal, school board, etc.

Answer 8

I hope so. Would you rather he be spanked?

God forbid there be structure and order in our school system!

My kid goes to school to learn and if he is disruptive and the teacher does something to help him to learn a consequence for his action plus having the punishment strenghthen his phsical fitness. I'm all for it.

I hope that you are not one of 'those' type of moms.

Answer 9

Dont take it as a punishment. Take it as getting in shape.

Answer 10

sounds like a question for the school board to resolve...