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Parents upset with discipline at KRHS district

By Shannon Milliken
smilliken@HanfordSentinel.com

Some Kings River-Hardwick School District parents are upset with what they say are inconsistencies in the school's discipline system.

The parents on occasion have met and discussed their individual experiences with the discipline process and, on Monday, the district's board of trustees met with parent Kelly Amaral.

Amaral discussed her complaints against the way her son's teacher disciplines him, as well as other concerns she has with district administration.

She made public her concerns during the board's regular meeting on Monday, following a closed session meeting with the trustees.

"Our worries are, as district parents, that so many hours have been spent applying for the California Department of Education Distinguished School Award that we are losing sight of problems that exist here at Kings River-Hardwick," Amaral said.

Jean Fetterhoff, the school's interim superintendent, said she could not discuss personnel issues, but noted that teachers have different ways of handing out discipline in their classrooms. However, if a complaint is lodged, Fetterhoff said, an investigation is carried out.

"When any complaints have come to my desk, I have found them not to have merit," Fetterhoff said. "The discipline policy is as consistently applied as possibly can be."

When it comes to that policy, Amaral, along with district parent Joy Prys, and former district parent Tracy Myers -- whose son graduated last year -- all say their sons' eighth-grade teacher is harder on boys than on girls when it comes to discipline.

Prys said her son has received 11 referrals less than halfway into the school year, and said the teacher told him she visualizes using physical punishment to discipline him but isn't allowed to follow through.

Amaral said her 14-year-old son has received "tags" -- the school's mark of warning (four tags equals one referral) -- for talking in the lunch line and walking across the school's grass.

Myers said she recalls similar examples when her son was in the same teacher's classroom last school year.

"It got to be ridiculously petty to where it was a joke," said Myers of the reasons her son was disciplined.

Myers said she and her son began to count down the days until graduation. Now he won't set foot on the school's campus, she said.

Two weeks ago, Amaral, who also serves as a volunteer, said she received a call from the district's interim superintendent asking her to meet with the board prior to Monday's meeting.

"It's a shame you have to do this when all you want to do is volunteer in your child's class," she said.

Amaral, Prys and Myers all agreed that when discipline issues rose above the classroom level and became an administrative issue for both parents and children, the district administrative turnover proved a hindrance to finding a solution.

"We've been through so many administrators," Amaral said. "We want consistency back at our school."

The reporter can be reached at 583-2424.

(Dec. 11, 2007)

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The following are comments from the readers. In no way do they represent the views of the Hanford Sentinel

Me wrote on Dec 11, 2007 12:30 PM:

" If your kid would behave, you wouldn't have anything to complain about. "

former KRH parent wrote on Dec 11, 2007 12:50 PM:

" I have known Jean Fetterhoff for many years. She is firm, fair and consistent and would not do anything without investigating first. She IS providing consistency with adminstration as she is still there to serve the community of KRH for a second year. You have one of the best and most admired administrators in the area. Work with her not against her. "

Support Parents wrote on Dec 11, 2007 12:54 PM:

" Great job Amaral and other families for standing up for your children and the future students at KRHS. The administrators comments even make her sound like her staff runs their own show without any consistant leadership. Seems like the school has not been the same since Mr Hanline was there years ago. If the school is teaching character counts and leadership, then sounds like the school needs a new leader. "

KRH Parent wrote on Dec 11, 2007 1:20 PM:

" Consider the source of these complaints and remember the last name. You'll likely be seing postings in the police blotter soon for her eldest son, and eventually for the one mentioned in the article, as they are NEVER held accountable for their actions and have a reputation at KRH for being disrespectful and out of control. "

Mrs.D wrote on Dec 11, 2007 1:20 PM:

" Oh, thank God! I thought the kids at Pioneers School District were "terrible and spoiled". Apparently, it's the teachers at KRHS who are out of control. "

Good Admin wrote on Dec 11, 2007 2:01 PM:

" I attended KRH 2007 8th grade graduation and it was an embarrassment to watch the son of the above goof off during his speech and then thrust his hips at the crowd of people who came to see the students that we are supposed to be so proud of. I think a lot of these students ask for what they get. I agree 100% with Me. Wonder how high school is going. "

Responsibility wrote on Dec 11, 2007 2:50 PM:

" Remember when you point the finger at someone else you have 3 pointed back at you. Maybe it is time that Mrs. Amarel start looking at herself and why it is that her children have had constant discipline issues. Stop blaming the school and start taking reponsibility for your job as a parent. "

Me 2 wrote on Dec 11, 2007 2:56 PM:

" From my understanding, Mrs. Amaral requested to have her son moved into this teacher's classroom. Now she's upset about the fact he has been held accountable for his actions. Sometimes you just can't please everyone... "

KRH Staff wrote on Dec 11, 2007 2:57 PM:

" Jean Fetterhoff is the best thing that ever happened to KRH. She is very fair with every problem that comes across her desk. And yes, she definately investigates situations before she acts on them. It is very sad that these parents do not support the values of good behavior when it comes to their childrens actions. Keep up the good work Jean Fetterhoff our community and the staff at KRH stands behind you 100%... "

Another KR-H Parent wrote on Dec 11, 2007 3:11 PM:

" I currently have an 8th grader at KR-H. He has attended school there since kindergarten. He has only received 1 tag in 8 years and he has had all the same teachers in question. I also have an older daughter who attended KR-H and never had any problems. I would pitch a tent in KR-H school district in order for my children to attend there. I have always volunteered in the classroom and have witnessed firsthand how disrespectful some children are. Children first learn respect and discipline at home. "

KRH Staff Member wrote on Dec 11, 2007 3:28 PM:

" I refuse to make negative comments regarding the parents, the children, and/or the parenting tactics that have been made on other posts. However, the admnistration here at KRH is at it's best it has been in many years! I thank Jean Fetterhoff for coming in after the mess the last superintnedent & vice principal left this school in and cleaning it up. The staff does not run the show, they are supported by an administrator who cares about the education of these children and views the staff as professionals and allows us to make judgements a professional educator should be making without fear of parental retaliation. The staff agrees we need a consistent administrator as the changes have been difficult and we thank Jean Fetterhoff for staying another year with us to help the transition. We also hope to find an administrator who will support us and stay on at KRH for more than a short time, but until then, we teachers will continue to do what we feel is in the best interest of all children at KRH as we are dedicated to the children and their education. "

no wrote on Dec 11, 2007 3:40 PM:

" I think that you are right to discipline the students the way you see fit. "

KRH Student wrote on Dec 11, 2007 4:08 PM:

" I Believe, as well with most of my peers, that Mrs. Conway is doing a fine job at teaching. She is the best teacher in the staff. If Mr. Amaral, and Mr. Jiminez would stop goofing off during class and stay on task, maybe they wouldn't be getting in trouble as much and we would be getting some progress....So bravo Mrs. Conway. -S.M. "

former KRH parent wrote on Dec 11, 2007 4:10 PM:

" There are 650 students are KRH. Isn't it interesting that the same few students' names seem to surface multiple times in discipline issues? Yet the parents of these students want to find fault with someone else instead of taking responsibility for their children's behavior. There is definitely a pattern here and I don't mean the consistent way the staff and administration of KRH deal with discipline. "

CJ AMARAL (Eldest Son) wrote on Dec 11, 2007 4:49 PM:

" i do no one thing.. i am man enough to post my name and not afraid like everyone else that has posted comments..KRH is the most unorganized and chaotic school in the county. Ever since Dr.Hanline has left, KRH has went downhill. Since my graduation, I have watched the school decline tremendously. My family and I have had numerous problems at KRH due to a couple of very unfair and "tag happy" teachers. So you people are no different by forming your opinion when you no NONE of the facts. So get a life and yes.. remember the last name AMARAL.. we stand up for what we believe "

Parent wrote on Dec 11, 2007 5:15 PM:

" My child is in the complaintant's class. My child feels this student distracts the rest of the class when the teacher is teaching a lesson. My hope is that this student and others like him will change their behavior so that our children can receive what they go to school for, that is, an education with the least possible distractions . "

Jay wrote on Dec 11, 2007 6:00 PM:

" My child too attended KRH, and never received a "tag". If these young men are getting into this much trouble, it shows they obviously lack discipline and boundaries at home. Any child which receives 11 tags (or 44 referrals), in the first half of the school year alone, leaves no doubt they are not disciplined or held accountable by their parents. Far too many parents blame everyone else for their children's actions, instead of taking responsibility themselves. It's extremely hard to believe there is any type of conspiracy at KRH against a select few kids. People need to realize the rules apply to everyone, regardless of their last name, and if you cant obey the rules there are consequences. Bottom line is, the nut doesn't fall too far from the tree! "

Me wrote on Dec 11, 2007 7:42 PM:

" Great, Mr. Amaral. Glad to know you paid attention to those grammar and spelling lessons. (it's "know" not "no.") "

Previous KRH Student wrote on Dec 11, 2007 7:53 PM:

" Hmm, lets look at the nominee for teacher of the year for Kings County in 2006? Uhm, that would be Trudy Conway, 6th to 8th Language Arts, Kings River-Hardwick School. So obviously she is doing a fine job at teaching. And by the way, I can recall numerous times where CJ and Kaeton have been in trouble throughout the years..So I am sure that it is not just one teacher.. It YOUR son Mrs.Amaral! "

KRH Parent wrote on Dec 11, 2007 8:18 PM:

" I am curious of Mr. Amaral's (the eldest) english/spelling grade. Please look up the difference between "know" and "no." If you wish to be taken seriously - like a "man" - you must present yourself as a literate adult - not as a child "instant messaging" his girlfriend. "

Current KRH parent wrote on Dec 11, 2007 8:33 PM:

" Maybe some of the parents at Kings River Hardwick are just too involved with their kids' lives, and should let their kids know that if they mess up at school they will have to pay the consiquences! I have personally seen the way Mrs. Amaral disciplines her children, and I must say it is no wonder they are always in trouble. Mrs. Amaral, I suggest you look at your kids carefully and try to see that they bring all their problems on themselves, and you backing them up is not helping! "

outatowner wrote on Dec 11, 2007 8:37 PM:

" Get used to it. There are ticket happy cops, tag happy parking maids, prompt happy bosses, demerit happy drill sergeants, late penalty happy credit card companies. . .show me a dumb kid and I'll show you a dumb parent "

KRH Staff wrote on Dec 11, 2007 8:52 PM:

" First of all, I am just amazed at the irresponsible and non-investigative reporting done by the reporter. Secondly, the editor of the paper should be reprimanded for allowing such an unsupported article to be printed on the front page, or at all. After all, by your own article’s admission, we are talking about very few out of many (probably less than 1%). I think if you investigated any school campus there would be at least that percentage or more who feel that discipline is inappropriate or unfair (usually the one’s who think rules aren't meant for them). This type of article creates a negative atmosphere, hurting the learning environment for all students. As far as KRH is concerned, it is one of the top performing schools in the county. Top performing schools do not happen by accident. It takes good teaching skills and classroom discipline to create a positive learning environment. It also takes strong support by all other Staff, Administration and Parents. The Sentinel, editor and reporter should be embarrassed for doing such a disservice. Leave tabloid news where belongs, in the recycle bin where it has some value. "

Rachael Pepe wrote on Dec 11, 2007 9:02 PM:

" Good for you CJ!!! For all of you out there that have no problem bashing these children and their parents, take a lesson. If you are going to post comments, own them!! DON'T be a coward! No child is perfect and some years are harder than others. Not all kids and teachers get along and just because Kelly is outspoken doesn't mean her claims have no merit. She put him in that class because she thought it was the right fit for him & never anticipated problems. And as for all of you commenting on the Amaral's parenting, why don't you take a long hard look at yourselves first. No parent or child is perfect so unless you have raised flawless children, shame on you for passing judgement! We all raise our children to make good choices, be independent & respectful to all people, the Amaral's do the same, but kids still have free will and make mistakes. Do they never get a second chance? Who wouldn't stick up for their kid if you thought they were being treated unfairly? Not every kid has to have a problem in the class for there to be one. "

A Former Student wrote on Dec 11, 2007 9:46 PM:

" I Attened KRH last year, I never had any issues with Mrs.Conway and i know for a fact that the student in question is a trouble maker. "

r u kidding me wrote on Dec 11, 2007 9:55 PM:

" Look at it this way...You could lie and say you live in the wonderful HESD school Dist. (Then you'd have something to complain about). "

Rachael Pepe wrote on Dec 11, 2007 10:05 PM:

Samantha Gomez KRH Class of 2007 wrote on Dec 11, 2007 10:13 PM:

" I attended KRH for all of my elementary years. Yes, I have had Mrs. Conway as a teacher during my 6th thru 8th grade years. I think that she is a wonderful teacher, and needs to win again TEACHER OF THE YEAR! As always on the first day of school the teachers all tell you what the rules are for the classroom. Mabye students are too busy texting people on the phone, and what the teacher says that is very important just goes in one ear and out the other. I have to say that throughout my years at KRH, I have never recieived a referral. I do belive that the students that get into trouble do desverve the consequences no matter who the parents are! So yea! I do think that Mrs. Fetterhoff is doing a great job at trying to keep the school in line. Maybe the students just need to pay more attention when it comes to 2+ 2= 4! Not the mistake of child+ parent= no consequences. So GREAT JOB to all KRH staff and supporting parents that agree students who get in troulbe do deserve the consequences! "

Concerned wrote on Dec 11, 2007 11:51 PM:

" I am reading these comments from afar; not even in the same community. hanfordsentinel.com is world-wide, ya know. I am curious after reading your seemingly "concerned" comments, that no-one (know-one?) has taken a real serious look at the possibility that someone who is paid and ethically responsible to teach a child may be fighting his chances to understand a very important lesson in life...fairness. Why is it assumed by so many that it is the student who's wrong? Possibly you have a teacher with issues of her own that need to be FAIRLY resolved. I can't see that will ever happen, since most of these pro-teacher comments seem to have been written by the same family...possibly hers. "

come on CJ wrote on Dec 12, 2007 12:40 AM:

" You NO Dr. Hanline has not been at KRH since 2001. Tell me you actually remember how well the school was organized when you were a primary student. More than likely you heard your parents whining about changes and parroted their complaints. When you misbehave you should have consequences. You shouldn't like consequences - that's what keeps you from repeating your offenses. I see a lot more people supporting the school and administration than your complaints - mmmm! You feel you have been treated unfairly? Life is not fair and whoever told you it was - lied. "

Everyone's so quick to judge... wrote on Dec 12, 2007 4:51 AM:

" I agree with you Rachel! Why are you people bashing these children and their parents? If that teacher would have told my child that she wanted to physicaly discipline him I would not have remained this calm. What I would do is more then likely not allowed to be posted on this site. Regardless if there are behavior problems in the class I think that this teacher should have handled herself better instead of letting her frustration get to her. Writing up children for talking in line and walking on the grass is a little ridiculous. For those of you picking at CJ for mispelling a word...what the HELL is wrong with you?!? He more then likely mispelled due to his education at KRH! "

Confused wrote on Dec 12, 2007 5:45 AM:

" CJ, our "man of the facts," where exactly did you get your fact that KRH is the most unorganized school in the county? Did you visit all the schools in Kings County? Did you review their practices and policies? Did you do your homework? Or is that comment just a biased opinion of you and your parents? I agree with Mrs. Pepe that we should not be bashing parents as none of us are perfect; but, let's remember, not all of us are fighting against techers every year of our child's education. After a certain point, we do need to step back and wonder when our child has problems year after year what the common factor is. And, there is such a thing as fighting too much of our children's battles. I'd like to point out that many don't feel the need to post actual names due to the fact we are a small community and we have seen the tactics of many of our families and we prefer to not be put on the receiving end of those attacks. It's not cowardice, but preservation. "

Wondering wrote on Dec 12, 2007 5:51 AM:

" I'm just wondering, have the Amarals never heard of an Interdisctrict Transfer? If they are so miserable at KRH and hate it so much there, why stay? I'm sure the admin at KRH would gladly sign the papers to release them to another school in another district. Maybe they stay because they recognize the great benefits the school has to offer and they can't wait to proudly say they're children attend a California Distinguished School?? Nevertheless, no one is a victim stuck in a situation. If you don't like where you are, you have choices. If you don't like where you are, move on. Life is too short to stay where you are unhappy. Good luck to all involved & let's remember, school is about the children receiving an education! "

Jay wrote on Dec 12, 2007 6:28 AM:

" Rachael, I do take a long look at my parenting skills and thus I hold myself and my children accountable. No one on here has claimed their child is perfect, but the majority is obviously aware of the fact the parents in question are naive as to their children's behavior. You are wrong when you state "we all raise our children to be independent & respectful to all people" if this were true there would be no problems with the children of today! It may be true that most of us want our children to be respectful, however it takes hard work and DISCPLINE to produce a respectful child and subsequent adult. I also think every parent has a right to defend their child "if" theyre wronged, however any parent whose child has received 44 referrals in only half the school year has no basis to complain. Contrary, these parents should be apologizing to the teachers! When you protect and defend your child regardless of their actions, you are doing them and disservice, since you will not always be there when they eventually get out into the real world. "

KRH parent wrote on Dec 12, 2007 8:48 AM:

" The Sentinel, editor and reporter deserve a tag for entertaining a single disgruntled parent and publishing a biased story on a California Department of Education Distinguished School such as KRH. Regarding Mrs. Amarel's parenting skills...TAG! Two thumbs down to the Hanford Sentinel! Does anyone else hear the sound of their subscription renewal flushing down the toilet? "

Bonnie Montgomery wrote on Dec 12, 2007 8:59 AM:

" As a member of the teaching staff, a parent of a KR-H student, and president of the KRHTA I would like to say that I would disagree with the premise of the Sentinel's article that there are discipline inconsistencies at KR-H which are not being addressed. Our staff is committed to providing an excellent education to our students and creating an environment that makes ALL learners feel safe, respected, and comfortable. We stand behind our administrator, Mrs. Fetterhoff, and are proud of the work she has done since she has been here. We support our colleague as she has had to go through a very trying time. Some will chastise those who do not leave their name on internet posts; is it really much different than blindsiding an educational professional by (in my opinion) slandering her name at a public school hearing when she is not present to defend herself? Is it much different than printing (in my opinion) libelous allegations in the local newspaper? I am proud to put my name as I am proud to work with Mrs. Conway, Mrs. Fetterhoff and the rest of the staff at Kings River-Hardwick School. "

Jackie K. wrote on Dec 12, 2007 9:26 AM:

" How sad that a reader will discontinue reading their community newspaper on the basis of one story they find offensive/inappropriate. Our job is to cover the news -- good, bad or indifferent. This topic was aired at a public meeting. Please note that the teacher was not named in The Sentinel story. She was "outed" by your fellow bloggers. "

for shame wrote on Dec 12, 2007 9:37 AM:

" Sorry Jackie - when personnel issues come up at board meetings - or individuals are being bashed -the board will go into closed session. I wasn't at this particular meeting but I would assume (yea, I know) that the board did not allow names to be mentioned in public - kind and respnsible of them. Why then did you allow a blogger to "out" this teacher? Nothing has been proven and this teacher's dignity and reputation are being injured. Your guidelines say that you will not allow slander or personal attacks, yet I see just that in these blogs everyday. "

Jackie K. wrote on Dec 12, 2007 9:43 AM:

" Thanks for your prompt reply. If you notice, all comments regarding the teacher in question, and the school district, are positive and supportive. They present a glowing affirmation of their positions. The comments regarding the parents, however, are less than glowing. Again, I'll put the responsibility back on the bloggers who are free to comment (within reason) about most topics. They are the ones who used the teacher's name. It is not our responsibility to edit out names. As for negative comments posted in these blogs: Elected officials and residents who put themselves in the public eye are fair game when it comes to blog comments. It goes with the territory. Just look at Paris and Britney. If you'd like more one-on-one assurance, feel free to e-mail me at editor@HanfordSentinel.com. "

Improper Conduct wrote on Dec 12, 2007 9:45 AM:

" Does anybody think that this great teacher in mention should have brought this issue up in class yeaterday for discussion with students? Hmmm "

concerned wrote on Dec 12, 2007 10:07 AM:

" I personally feel that all parties involved are doing nothing for this child, all the time this kid gets in trouble. Hello, has he been evaluated by school phycholigist maybe it goes deeper than "the unruley child". I agree with Rachael, we have to stand up for our children. I also think you should never cast stones (this could be your child). I have five children, each are very different and unique, we try our best as parents. We have very high achievers and a son that struggles with acadimics and is surely never the teachers pet. I would always get calls from the school, we tried discipline & consequences, it did not work. our son needed positive reinforcement and encouragement. after being diagnosed with "ADHD" in which we do not treat with medication, we have realized that our son has issues the school has acknowledged this and the calls are less frequent. You negative people should all change your focus, stop bashing the family and school and help this boy, He could run this country someday!! GOOD LUCK AMARALS!!!!!!!! "

Alan G. wrote on Dec 12, 2007 10:07 AM:

" After reading the article and the subsequent comments, I think it's fairly safe to say that the teacher and administrator's reputations are intact. We all went to school and we are all very familiar with those kids who receive numerous "tags" or demerits or whatever they've been called over the years. The likelihood that a teacher targets some meek, quiet kid is practically nil. I think perhaps the parent and teacher should schedule weekly meetings or progress reports and work together to solve the problem, whatever it may be. I know some parents want to think their kids are angels and will defend them vigorously, but the smarter approach would be to listen to the teacher with an open mind, take all of the information in and make an informed decision as to how to eliminate the disciplinary issues. I always give more weight to the teachers because they are educated adults entrusted with the task of teaching my kids. "

Agree with me! wrote on Dec 12, 2007 10:31 AM:

" I also agree 100 percent with me! I attended last years graduation to watch my daughter and 2007 classmates and was very disappointed in this one students actions during his speech. My daughter was in Mrs. Conways class along with this student and she was always coming home saying that he was in trouble again and a disruption in class. Mrs. Conway is a "GREAT" teacher and we need more like her! THANK YOU MRS CONWAY AND KEEP UP THE GREAT JOB YOU ARE DOING WITH YOU STUDENTS!!!!!!! "

Ms. MLC wrote on Dec 12, 2007 11:18 AM:

" I too have raised two out of four children with ADHD, one with meds and one without. Neither one had dicipline problems or someone using their ADHD as an excuse for their dicipline. I now have a grandchild attending KRHS, I find it to be a very organized and fun school. If you want to see problems enroll your children at HESD and see what you get. Be careful what you wish for, it may not be what you really want. Once again I see an educator being blamed for a child not being able to spell or speak correctly, education starts at home and should be reinforced at home, get the hint and place blame where it first starts. Too many parents trying to defend their children too oftern do not make productive citizens of them. Life always has consequences at any age. "

Cold Hearted wrote on Dec 12, 2007 1:29 PM:

" I can't even begin to state my point of view about all that is being said and done. It saddens me that parents have stooped so low, when in actuality, they are very lucky to be a part of KR-H. If you truly play a part in your child’s education and have played an active role at this school, you would surely know that there is an awesome bond between students, parents and staff. Having such a negative article printed in the sentinel is not only embarrassing, but rather, cold hearted. I hope that the community has taken into consideration that every school and/or work place is not perfect; therefore, this article was a waste of time and was only printed to start drama. Just remember, when a child is problematic, it is important for both the parents and teachers to step in and help guide that child in a positive direction. Making excuses for a child will only worsen that child’s future. I hope that those parents who have chosen to create this article are aware of what they may have created for themselves and their children's future. "

Anonymus for a reason wrote on Dec 12, 2007 1:29 PM:

" I agree with Rachael, you parents that go online and say that another parents CHILD/CHILDREN will appear in the police blotter should be ashamed of yourselves. They are still CHILDREN and make mistakes, some more than others. STOP BASHING CHILDREN, EMPHASIS ON CHILDREN!! Hopefully you are never put in a situation where you feel you need to back up your CHILD, not for a mistake they made, but for the way it was handled by school officials. If you have never had to go down to KRH about an issue with your CHILD consider yourself lucky, you would be amazed at the way SOME school officials talk to CHILDREN and/or adults. Don't get me wrong there ARE some very good employees there, hopefully next year will be better. And true, life is not fair but everyone still should be treated with respect, be it a CHILD or adult. REMEMBER : CHARACTER COUNTS APPLIES TO EVERYONE!!! PRACTICE WHAT YOU PREACH!! Sometimes people remain anonymus not because they are cowards themselves, but fear of retaliaton against CHILDREN ESPECIALLY (either written or verbal, this site is proof of that.) "

Shannon Milliken wrote on Dec 12, 2007 2:19 PM:

" To those who have posted comments regarding my ability to complete investigative reporting, I was approached by nearly a dozen parents, all with similar complaints that they felt their children had been disciplined in an unfair and inconsistent manner. Most of the parents brought to me copies of referrals that their children had received. As for those bloggers who referred to the story as biased, I mentioned to all sources that I talked to - parents, superintendent, and the teacher in question - that I am on no one's side. My interest is in reporting every side of the story. And, while I enjoy writing about Santa Claus in some stories, the function of a NEWSpaper is to provide readers with all of the NEWS in the area: both positive and negative. Though the main focus at a school should be a child's education, this alleged inconsistency is an issue that is negatively affecting some of the student population, which in turn affects their educational experience. > "

Worried wrote on Dec 12, 2007 2:21 PM:

" Most teachers and parents want nothing more strongly than the ability to influence youngsters, but in their zeal to do so, fall into the trap of using control methods-imosing limits, making countless rules, sending commands, coercing, punishing, or threatening punishment. Control methods don't really influence children to choose particular ways of behaving...they merely coerce or compel them to do so. Good goin' KRH Staff-savor your "distinguished" awards, place yourselves at 7 on a 10 scale of CA schools, but as teachers please take note: It is risky and self-defeating at a minimum to place a young spirit and fragile self-worth so precariously on a thin line. Think . In the end we may look back and wonder what OTHER factors were involved when drugs/alcohol entered their lives..As a substance abuse counselor, I can say that, if events are unfolding (as it appears ) at your school /community, I may someday see some of these young people in my office...(But that will never happen to my kid, huh?) "

Mrs.D wrote on Dec 12, 2007 3:42 PM:

" Maybe Mrs. Amaral should have taken the time to "ghost" her child's behavior in class. Ghosting is when you actually spy on your child in class. If she could see what her little angel was doing to deserves these tags, maybe we wouldn't have to read this article in the paper. And if there's a Mr. Amaral in the picture, what in the heck has he been doing all these years? "

Student wrote on Dec 12, 2007 4:08 PM:

" Ow my gosh Mrs. Conway is not like that. Those mom's should see there boy's in class. "

a former KRH student wrote on Dec 12, 2007 4:17 PM:

" It is indeed interesting to know that the parents of the only children causing problems are mentioned in this article. You cannot sit there and blame the teachers for your lack of parenting. If your children would respect the teachers perhaps the teachers would respect them. Its a give and take situation, obviously if your children would behave they wouldn't get in trouble. Although you may be right it could be the teachers, but that is not the only problem, please take the time to talk to your children about their actions instead of rewarding them for sticking it to their teacher. "

CJ AMARAL wrote on Dec 12, 2007 4:20 PM:

" yes you parents or "parent" should be ashamed of yourslves by saying i will be in the police blotter. That isn't very nice of you to say that. Well i guess it just shows how much class all of you have...NONE!!!!!! : ) have a nice day since you are all perfect "

Single Parent wrote on Dec 12, 2007 4:36 PM:

" I am a single parent and I believe that discipline starts in the home. All we can do is trust that we teach our children well and teach them respect, what they do when they leave our home is up to them. But when they return and I hear they have been disruptive and disrespectful in class or at school then it was my job to put my child in check and make sure it doen't happen again. If it does then I start making drastic changes. Starting by taking away all the toys, cell phone, tv, xbox, ipod, you name it, until I seen changes, it all starts in the home. If your child is behaving badly in school than he is behaving badly at home. I bet my money on it! "

Can't believe what I'm seeing wrote on Dec 12, 2007 4:47 PM:

" I wonder if someone could tell me where the article about the Amaral's parenting skills was in yesterday's paper. As far as I could tell, I read an article about inconsistency in a school's disciplinary actions and not a story about how someone should raise there child. I didn't realize there were so many perfect parents out there that they would offer there suggestions under a anonymous title - stand up all you perfect parents - let us know your name so maybe that way we could get some hints on how to raise the perfect child. It just seems to me that everyone has gotten off of the subject of the silly "tag" rules that KRH is using and started personal attacks on the Amaral family. As far as I can tell the Amaral's have taught their children that you should stand up for what you believe in, take the proper steps on the chain of command, and own up to your comments by posting your name. Now the others that are posting such nasty blogs what kind of parenting skills are you teaching your children? That it is okay to publicly bash another anonymously? "

FYI Mrs. D wrote on Dec 12, 2007 5:31 PM:

" As a matter of fact there is a Mr. Amaral in the picture and he and Mrs Amaral from my understanding have been married for over 25 years and been busy raising three wonderful boys!! As I see it is seemingly none of your business about the home life of the Amaral boys and you should only comment when you have all of the facts and know what you are talking about. How about bloggers? Do you think it would be possible for any of you to get all of the facts and comment on that instead of what the Amarals are doing at home? "

Jackie K. wrote on Dec 12, 2007 5:40 PM:

" This thread is now closed. Everything constructive that could be said, has been said. "

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