When I was a kid going to school and got whacked by a teacher for misbehaving , the last thing I would do is tell my parents that Brother John or Sister Mary hit me. They'd have paddled my butt after asking me what I did to deserve it

Sounds like my house growing up

Personally I couldn't ask for better kids then the ones I have so I don't know what you mean where did WE go wrong . Maybe the parents fault ?

.....or the entire system maybe?

Im not sure Rusty I kind of get along great with the kids . I have kids from the age of 37 down to 9 , All their friends are great kids also though you wouldnt think so talking to the parents , but to me they are respectfull & helpful but what kid isnt to other kids parents away from home . I do believe many parents spoiled their kids . Mine I gave nothing but food clothing shelter and my love all the time they was earning a new bike . Even now my 9 year old has his own web page that generats money and a computer wiz . I guess its all what we do to our kids that makes them what they are . As far as society well I guess that plays a factor but not much in my family .

I was referring to the classroom environment, after re-reading my post I guess that it was a bit muddy. The point I was making is that too many kids have little respect for teachers and the teachers (school systems) are hamstrung by the threat of lawsuits.

Teachers cannot discipline disruptive children in an effective manner. I am not suggesting abuse, but a light whack upside the head or butt no longer ignites support from the parents, but a threat of legal action

But it also transcends to the home (parents) and I'm sure other factors come into play too

Yeah I totally agree , many kids in school mainly high school are out of control but still its not up to the teacher nor can they teach kids morals when they have to go home to ignorant parents . Maybe the biggest problem is we made Mom go to work leaving the kids raised by a person who really doesn't give a crap just putting in their time . Mom and dad to tired to listen to the kids buy them what they want just to shut them up . Funny a person like me in Detroit in Mexican town of all places has great respectful kids and the rich mans kid is trying to kill him . Something not right for sure .

"Maybe the biggest problem is we made Mom go to work leaving the kids raised by a person who really doesn't give a crap just putting in their time"

I've been thinking the same for many a year, but I also think the teachers really do care....at the beginning........... but constant beating their heads against the wall of indifference is their undoing

I was never afraid to tell my parents if anyone ever hit me. No adult has the right to strike any kid, and I went to school during the 50's and 60's.