Court Opinion

ID: 9521103
Source: CourtListenerOpinion
Date Created: 2023-08-07 01:57:08.63514+00
Date Added: 2024-06-11T12:47:40.279633
License: Public Domain

Concurring Opinion
Arterburn, J.
I fully concur in Judge Landis’ opinion and particularly wish to emphasize the point that a teacher stands in the same relationship as a parent during the time a child is in the custody of a teacher. A teacher, and a parent, have not only the right but the obligation to discipline a child, if necessary using corporal punishment, for the good of such child, as well.as the protection of third parties offended or injured by the actions of such child. The failure to exercise such disciplinary action where the occasion requires it, is condemned by the law as much as an excessive and cruel punishment beyond requirements.
In this case the teacher was confronted with an arrogant and impudent child interrupting classroom exercises by violent and abusive remarks towards the teacher. The medical testimony was uncontradicted that this pupil had the mentality to know and understand her wrong-doing and to control it. The teacher had the duty of protecting the interests of the remaining members of the class from interruption and at the same time maintain order and a respect for authority .among the children. A teacher has no choice in an orderly society but to exercise physical force in stopping and removing the recalcitrant pupil and inflicting corporal punishment, not only to the offending child *337for its benefit, but as an example to the other pupils. Such matters may not be delayed until there is time to talk and “reason” with the pupil. Consideration has to be given to the remaining pupils in the class where the incident occurred.
I might further add that I have serious doubts that a teacher confronted with such a situation and responsibility under the law for maintaining order and a respect for authority before a classroom of pupils, can be deprived by a “rule” of the right to use physical force to eliminate such a disturbance. As long as teachers or parents are obligated under the law to educate, teach and train children, they may not be denied the necessary means of carrying out their responsibility as such teachers or parents.
Note. — Reported in 192 N. E. 2d 740.