I'm sorry it's taken so long to respond...
I have read all of the point of views about this and I must say I do see everyone's point of views. let me tell you my high school punishment system before I get into my opinion. Students were allowed a five minute grace period untill they were concidered late and punished. If someone was to be punished (same rule applies to not following dress code) the student would have to sit in the head teacher's office for the entire day. The office was in between two classes and was surrounded by windows so it was quite humiliating
. If there was a test on that day, the teacher would bring the test to you to take in the office and lunch was also brought to you. I saw this as both unfair but fair. The humiliating part of sitting in an office where everyone can see you was humiliating but on the other hand, a dress code and the five minute tardy grace period wasn't too hard to follow. The teachers did however show a great understanding if you were sick. A parent would have to call in to explain this so they knew the student was actually sick or had a valid reason.
Because of what I went through, I can understand both sides. It's wrong to be late, but a good reason should not be punishable. If it's nap's first time AND had a good reason there shoudl be at least some understanding handed to him. However, Nap, your being the teacher's pet
only makes the school want to make an example out of you and NOT give you special treatment. Believe me, I should know! I too was the teacher's pet and when times were rough they came down on me and didn't even bother to really understand why I was acting the way I did. I believe the school wasn't trying to be hard on you, Nap, but more set an example for the other students to not be late regardless of who you are. They also want to make sure you don't repeat it. I agree they were too hard on you considering the circumstances and maybe this should be discussed between a teacher and your mother if it happens again. Teachers have a funny way about them when it comes to listening to students as opposed to their parents.
Nap, I certainly hopes it works out for you.
Ladyserenity, I think you are being a great supporting mother. Keep up the good work!
DD, I do agree with your point of view. In general, It is a good rule but it should not have to be that strict to work.
I also hope that the debating doesn't progress further to an argument on whose opinions are right and whose are wrong since everyone has a right to their opinions. It sounds like most of you understand that but it seems some are still getting a little defensive about it. Above all, it's the mother's decision on how to proceed with her own child's future...at least when it comes to subjects like school and the like!
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Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength;
while loving someone deeply gives you courage.
--Lao Tzu
LOVE ME LOVE MY DOGS