Teachers say BELA Act leaves them powerless in the classroom

Teachers say BELA Act leaves them powerless in the classroom

Teachers claim broad definition of corporal punishment is making discipline in their classrooms impossible.  The BELA Act’s definition of corporal punishment expands beyond physical harm, classifying actions such as denying learners bathroom access as a form of corporal punishment.   Many say the act is impractical because learners exploit it and alternative measures are ineffective.  Vague wording in the act exposes teachers to possible prosec…