All Corpus Christi's school districts allow paddling, but many parents, teachers and even principals who administer the punishment have mixed feelings about how effective it is and some worry that the practice can be taken too far. Those who oppose paddling say that it can cause permanent psychological damage to children, and does nothing to increase their learning ability or to create a more disciplined classroom.
Supporters say it can be an effective tool with some students.
Even though she agreed to having her daughter paddled, she thought the spanking was too severe. She reported it to the police, and the case will go before the Kleberg County grand jury on Nov. 18. District officials said Acosta, who couldn't be reached for comment, followed district policy and has done nothing wrong. Parent Eloisa Cortez said she, like Myers, thinks the paddlings can go too far. West Oso interim superintendent Jesse DeRusse said Cortez came to him late this week with her complaints.