When School Discipline Turns Painful
School punishments like push‑ups, squats, and sit‑ups are the norm in many schools, but it’s a different story when they get out of hand.
The Sichuan Incident
- A 14‑year‑old sophomore from a junior high in Sichuan found herself permanently disabled after a harsh bout of 150 squats imposed by a student leader.
- The chain of events began when the student leader discovered a packet of snacks on the girl’s dorm bed and decided to enforce a rule violation by adding “exercise” to the punishment.
- Despite the girl’s protests—she denied owning the snacks and mentioned an old foot injury—she was forced to complete the full set of squats.
- Notably, a teacher who was present chose not to intervene.
- Following the incident, the girl received a range of medical treatments, including surgeries at multiple hospitals.
- Despite best efforts, she was left with long‑term mobility issues and now has to walk with crutches.
- She also fell into depression after the injury, a heartbreaking outcome for a teenager whose life’s course was altered overnight.
- As a result, the school settled a 110,000‑yuan (about S$23,000) compensation package to cover her medical costs, though an agreement with the family is still pending.
- Last July, the teacher who failed to stop the unfair punishment was dismissed.
More Than One Injustice
Accidents of this nature aren’t unique to Sichuan. In 2019, a 19‑year‑old woman from Chongqing was admitted to a hospital after a friend challenged her to complete 1,000 squats—an extreme test that left her injured.
Takeaway: Moderation Is Key
While enforceable rules are essential for school order, the safety and well‑being of students must always come first. Adding a pinch of humor to strictness can keep discipline lighthearted and humane. Let’s keep the line between “fun” and “dangerous” firmly in mind.
