El Salvador Cracks Down on School Discipline

B1 – Intermediate 

Former army captain Karla Trigueros has been appointed as the new minister of education in El Salvador.

Along with this appointment is the implementation of stricter rules and discipline among the schools across the country. Some of the initiatives have something to do with the students’ appearance and conduct. 

Read the article about El Salvador’s new school policies.

https://breakingnewsenglish.com/2508/250825-school-discipline.html

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What is a “role model”? “One of her first edicts was to require all school principals to become role models.” Use the term in a sentence. Give a similar expression.
  2. What does “veer” mean?  “It was concerned that the country was veering back to the days of military dictatorship.” Use the word in a sentence. Give a synonym. 
  3. What does “to straighten someone out” mean? “However, many parents are supportive of the new rules. One said: That’s how you straighten children out from a young age.” Use the idiom in a sentence. Give a similar expression.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What is your reaction to and opinion on El Salvador’s education minister’s new school policies?
  2. What are your thoughts on Trigueros inspecting schools wearing army fatigues?
  3. Do you agree or disagree with a leading teachers’ union when they likened the new policies to “regrettable militarization” of the schools? Share your opinion.
  4. What are effective ways to discipline school children from a young age?
  5. How has school discipline changed in your country over the years?
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2 replies on “El Salvador Cracks Down on School Discipline”

It is a very controversial topic. I believe the new policies are quite extreme because they focus too much on appearance instead of learning. Discipline is important, but it should not be the main goal of education.
I think that there are two points of view about them.
On one hand, the purpose is to create a more orderly and respectful learning environment, such as clear rules about appearance and conduct, reduce distractions, minimize bullying related to clothing, and instill a sense of discipline and equality among students.
On the other hand, this policy’s focus is superficial and authoritarian. Enforcing military-style haircuts and inspecting uniforms shifts the focus from the quality of education. It prioritizes obedience over creativity and could suppress student’s individuality and freedom of expression.

From my point of view, the fact that Trigueros inspecting schools wearing army fatigues it sends a wrong message. I mean schools should feel like a safe and welcoming place, not like a military base.
I agree with the teachers’ union, the policies do look like a kind of militarization, and that could create fear rather than respect among students.
I think the best way is through positive role models, clear rules, and communication. Rewarding good behavior often works better than just punishing mistakes.

In Spain, discipline has changed a lot. In the past, schools were more authoritarian, but now teachers try to build respect through dialogue and understanding, not strict control.

Great going with your writing practice!

Here is a response that can still be improved:

On one hand, the purpose is to create a more orderly and respectful learning environment, such as clear rules about appearance and conduct, reduce distractions, minimize bullying related to clothing, and instill a sense of discipline and equality among students.

On one hand, the purpose of these new school policies is to create a more orderly and respectful learning environment, so as to have clear rules about appearance and proper conduct, reduce distractions, minimize bullying related to clothing, and instill a sense of discipline and equality among students.

Keep up the good work and being consistent!

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