Teachers Are Trying to Teach. But Who's Teaching Our Kids to (Mis)Behave?
America needs a revolution to save its schools—it means moms and dads must respect and reconnect with overburdened educators.
In 2023, a young boy shot his teacher at a Virginia elementary school. Bodycam footage revealed reading specialist Amy Kovac tending to the student while her fellow educators battled for her life. The Richneck incident highlights the broader issue of teachers' focus on educating children while managing their behavior. The author, a former Catholic school student and daughter of a teacher, reflects on classroom management and the challenges faced by educators today.
A 2026 Education Week survey found that 76% of elementary school teachers reported a worsening of student behavior over the previous year. Similarly, a 2024 Pew Research Center survey indicated that 68% of teachers encountered classroom behavioral issues daily. While compassion for students is essential, accountability is equally important.
Teachers need a balance of creativity, consistency, and boundaries to manage their classrooms effectively. The author emphasizes the need for parents to build relationships with teachers, attend school events, and engage in conversations about their children's behavior. Schools must also provide teachers with the necessary support, including access to trained professionals and fair discipline policies.
By working together, educators and parents can create safe and productive learning environments for all students.
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