This is not all that new
Assault perhaps. But disruptive misbehavior in U.S. schools is not. I graduated from a decent high school in 1965 and I did not always conduct myself as respectfully as I should have. Bit of a smart aleck I must admit.
If the teacher was firm and fair, we behaved. If easily pushed around, we talked back and told jokes and acted up. Assault never entered our minds.
After the service and college I looked into teaching high school. After sitting in one day in a high school history class I gave up that idea. This was 1975, I believe. The kids' behavior was just intolerable and I pitied the teacher, who was obviously embarrassed that he could not control his students.
After I retired from the newspaper business I volunteered to tutor at the elementary school I attended in the 1950s.
Things had changed, the neighborhood was now poor and most of the students were from single parent families. I had a wee bit of trouble but quiet firmness usually got me through. Of course we are talking about children ages 7-10 years old.
I did that from 2014 until Covid. I enjoyed it and feel I may have done a little good during my time. I'm thinking of going back in as a tutor if they will have me.
However I consciously avoided any thought of working middle school or high school.
It's a pity school discipline and administration are so weak these days. After the home, school is usually the most formative part of a young person's life. If the home is lacking and the school is chaotic, what chance does a youngster have of turning out okay?
So sad, both for the teachers and the students.