When at School Is It a Common Practice to Stick Your Chewed Gum Under the Desk?

It's disgusting and no one wants their desks coated in a sea of gum. Not only does it get on your shoes and hair, but it's gross for everyone around you. If you catch anyone doing this, they should definitely stick to cleaning the underside of every desk in the room. Moreover, you don't need to hide your gum chewing in class, as it's not a concern to pronounce a foreign language with gum in your mouth.

Why Is This Habit Disgusting?

When it comes to sticking chewed gum under desks, we all know it's a prevalent issue in schools. Teachers and janitors constantly deal with the aftermath of this bad habit. One could argue that gum poses a threat to the cleanliness of the classroom, making it a breeding ground for bacteria and germs. Additionally, students and teachers alike can slip on the sticky residue, leading to accidents and potential injuries.

Consequences of This Habit

The consequences of leaving chewed gum under desks can be severe, especially for the neglectful student who decides to take the risk. In my ten years of working in a secondary school, I can attest to the fact that both students and staff faced these consequences. The primary consequence is the requirement to thoroughly clean the underside of desks, which can be a time-consuming and tedious task. It disrupts the learning environment and can lead to time taken away from other important tasks. Additionally, the sticky residue can damage the desks and other furniture, which requires additional costs and efforts to maintain.

Why Punishment Is Necessary

Several teachers, including myself, believed in the importance of punishment for the offenders. While prevention and education are crucial, it's equally important to have consequences for those who disregard these rules. The punishment serves as a deterrent, teaching students about responsibility and accountability for their actions. Despite some arguing that it might not be a significant issue, it's crucial to address moral boundaries and the cleanliness of shared spaces. Ignoring such behaviors could lead to a slippery slope where students start to take more risks and challenge authority.

What Should Be Done?

Instead of burying your head in the sand, it's essential to address this issue head-on. Teachers need to enforce rules and norms that emphasize the importance of cleanliness and cooperation. This can be achieved through a combination of education, stricter enforcement, and consequences for those who don't comply. Providing students with proper alternatives, such as designated disposal areas for gum, can also help reduce this problem. By creating a culture of responsibility and awareness, schools can significantly reduce the prevalence of this disgusting habit.

Remember, the issue of sticking chewed gum under desks is not just about personal hygiene but about the health and well-being of the entire school community. By taking a proactive approach, we can create a more hygienic and respectful environment for all students and staff.