A School’s ‘Problem Solving’ Note to Parents Sparks Debate

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At the start of the school year, Principal Mark Thompson of St. Joseph’s Academy for Boys in Little Rock, Arkansas, made waves with a straightforward message to parents: if your son forgets something at home, don’t bother bringing it to school. The school’s Facebook page shared a note that read, “Welcome to St. Joseph’s Academy. We teach reading, writing, arithmetic, and problem-solving.”

The message continued, “If you are dropping off your son’s forgotten lunch, books, homework, sports gear, etc., please TURN AROUND and exit the building. Your son will learn to problem-solve in your absence.” The use of “son” specifically highlights that this is an all-boys institution.

According to Thompson, “Teenage boys often revert to calling their parents to rescue them from minor issues. We encourage our boys to resist that urge and instead think of ways to address challenges independently.” This reliance on parents has become more common, especially with the ease of communication through cell phones.

Last year, a similar situation arose when a principal in Florida declared, “We do not accept drop-off items like lunches or homework. Please plan accordingly.” Reflecting on my own teenage years, I would have never thought to ask my parents to bring me something I forgot; it simply wasn’t an option. These are young men on the path to adulthood, and soon they’ll need to manage their responsibilities on their own.

However, not all parents agree with this approach. Some voiced their concerns, arguing it’s unrealistic to expect children to thrive without essentials. Comments included remarks like:

• “You can’t problem-solve on an empty stomach or without your schoolbooks!”
• “This school needs to show a bit more compassion.”
• “If my kids need something, I’m going to bring it.”
• “This isn’t teaching problem-solving; it’s just harsh.”

The note has ignited a lively discussion online, with many parents expressing their worries. The thought of their children going without lunch or missing important assignments is distressing. Yet, in the real world, there are no safety nets to catch us when we stumble; learning to navigate challenges is a vital part of growing up.

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In summary, while the school’s policy may seem tough, it aims to foster independence among students. The discussions around this topic reflect the diverse opinions parents have about balancing support with teaching responsibility.