Changes in student rewards and discipline

An Economics and Law Education class at Le Quy Don Secondary and High School, Tu Liem Ward, Hanoi. (Photo by THE DAI)

Besides, changing strict forms of discipline with flexible and positive measures also raises many concerns: how to ensure discipline while maintaining educational value?

From regulation to practice

According to the Ministry of Education and Training , Circular 19 applies to educational institutions with students studying general education programs, continuing education programs at junior high and high school levels. The Circular stipulates the responsibilities of schools, principals, teachers, students, students' families, and the Department of Education and Training in implementing and monitoring regulations on rewards and discipline.

The outstanding new point of Circular 19 is to emphasize the humanistic principle, for the progress of students, to enhance the autonomy and responsibility of management levels; at the same time, to promote coordination between schools, families and society.

Regarding the principles of discipline, Circular 19 adds requirements to respect, tolerance, non-prejudice, and ensuring the rights and interests of students. The Circular strictly prohibits disciplinary measures that are violent, insulting to dignity, and affecting the physical and mental health of students.

Accordingly, severe forms of discipline such as reprimand before the Disciplinary Council, warning in front of the whole school, suspension from school, and forced expulsion for one year have been eliminated. Instead, the Circular adds new measures such as requesting an apology and writing a self-criticism.

Vice Principal in charge of Le Loi High School (Ha Dong Ward, Hanoi) Le Xuan Trung said: “The biggest advantage of Circular 19 is its humanity, showing concern, and the concerns of public opinion about the new disciplinary measures being too lenient are well-founded. However, it is necessary to have a comprehensive view that educating and disciplining students is not only the responsibility of the school, but also the shared responsibility of the family and society. Parents must accompany and promptly detect unusual manifestations of their children to closely coordinate with teachers. Moreover, deterrence does not necessarily come from extreme severity; sometimes listening and understanding bring about a deeper and more sustainable impact."

It is necessary to have a comprehensive view that educating and disciplining students is not only the responsibility of the school, but also the shared responsibility of the family and society. Parents must accompany and promptly detect unusual manifestations of their children to closely coordinate with teachers. Moreover, deterrence does not necessarily come from extreme severity; often listening and understanding bring about a deeper and more lasting impact.
((Vice Principal in charge of Le Loi High School (Ha Dong ward, Hanoi) Le Xuan Trung))

From the perspective of the management agency, Head of the Department of Students (Ministry of Education and Training) Hoang Duc Minh emphasized: Circular 19 approaches the issue of rewarding and disciplining students in a way that is consistent with the Law on Education, the Law on Emulation and Commendation, the Law on Children and the current legal system. Compared to previous regulations, the clear difference is the legality and the suitability to the actual context.

According to experts: Educating students is not only the responsibility of the education sector but also requires close coordination between family and society. Within the legal framework, all violations are handled according to the nature, level and consequences, on the basis of current regulations such as criminal law, juvenile justice law, etc.

It is important to change the way we view discipline: not to push students out of the educational environment, but to help them progress, become self-aware and correct their mistakes. For students of this age, suspension or expulsion is not appropriate, because it is an administrative decision rather than an educational activity, and can put them at risk of falling if they lack the attention of the school and family.

Every teacher needs to be dedicated to their profession, treat students as their own children, uphold the ethics of teaching; treat them fairly and accompany them. Along with that, effective education can only be achieved with the cooperation of the school, family and the whole society. In particular, teachers play the role of a bridge, regularly exchanging information with parents to support and help students progress.

QUYNH NGUYEN

Source: https://nhandan.vn/buoc-chuyen-trong-khen-thuong-ky-luat-hoc-sinh-post910345.html