What to Know
- If the bill passes during the upcoming session and is signed by Governor Ron DeSantis, the procedure could be in place as soon as 2020.
It’s a form of discipline still used in some Florida schools – but two bills set to be introduced in the upcoming legislative session could change the rules regarding paddling.
NBC affiliate WBBH-TV reports that bills could make it necessary for principals to get a parent’s permission before using the form of corporal punishment. As of the current school year, 19 counties in the state still use the discipline.
Reaction is mixed across the state.
“I remember my principal walking the hall, smacking the paddle and threatening us to behave,” said Rebekah Zambito when asked about the practice that was commonplace as late as the 1980s.
“When I was growing up, you didn't dare talk back. I agree with it,” said Debbie Spearman. “We're Christians, so it's biblical in the Bible, but there could be extremes, too.”
If the bill passes during the upcoming session and is signed by Governor Ron DeSantis, the procedure could be in place as soon as the 2020-21 school year.
