Dangerous Times for Teachers

In Saskatchewan, 35% of teachers so far this year report instances of abuse and violence by students this September. ON, AB, NS and the territories admit to similar rates.

I still remember in the fall of 1972 when students of Grand Centre (AB) High rounded us up early one afternoon into the agora with the goal of getting the rest of the day off. I, like other male teachers, was manhandled by two or more male students.

It occurred to me then, that students could easily overcome and overwhelm staff if they so chose. And, now, some 50 years later, this possibility of open physical/violent rebellion has come of age and is much more commonplace in Canada.