Contact:
Mara Powell
502-895-8167 *122
mpowell@kyyouth.org
Statement by Dr. Terry Brooks, executive director of Kentucky Youth Advocates
Corporal punishment does not create a more disciplined learning environment, nor does it change student behavior. Instead it traumatizes kids and creates school climates that are less disciplined and trauma-sensitive. This misguided form of punishment has immediate and long-lasting impacts on the child’s physical and mental health, behavior, and educational outcomes.
The Kentucky House took a courageous and necessary step towards improving the learning environments of thousands of Kentucky students with today’s passage of House Bill 22. Eliminating the use of corporal punishment as a form of discipline in all schoolhouses is a commonsense measure that compliments smart efforts to improve school safety and climate.
We commend Representative Steve Riley for championing this safety measure and applaud members of the Kentucky House for supporting it. We now call on the Kentucky Senate to support House Bill 22 and end corporal punishment in schools once and for all.
Stay up-to-date on Blueprint for Kentucky’s Children priorities and other bills that are good for kids on our Kentucky General Assembly Bill Tracker.
###
About Kentucky Youth Advocates
Kentucky Youth Advocates believes all children deserve to be safe, healthy, and secure. As THE independent voice for Kentucky’s children, we work to ensure policymakers create investments and policies that are good for children. Learn more at www.kyyouth.org.
Leave A Comment