Or once again there are parents crabbing about teachers having authority over thier children and they don't like it. Once again a reason our society is so messed up. Parents don't want anyone but them telling their kids what to do, but yet they don't raise them either so them the kids are left with nothing. Sorry, just my .02.

Wow, Tracey!  I teach in Florida in public school and I have NEVER heard of that law.  It possibly has become a LAW in your district, though.  And yes, it has become ridiculous in Florida.  However, I would not use it as a time to read or write or do an academic activity.  I don't think that the link between misbehavior and academics is something that you would want to make.  Five year olds could certainly draw about the choice that they made and what would be a better choice and older kids could do the same in writing.

I'm fortunate.  Our school literally has a quiet room and when options are exhausted we can send kids there so that the rest of the class can go on with the learning.  I like the idea of "taking a break."  I teach a science lab and I call it "choosing not to participate."  (I use different words with the little guys, though).  I talk about safety constantly and if they choose unsafe behavior then they can't participate because they could be dangerous to themselves and others.

Sheesh.....what education has become......

Jodie...

Your 2 cents are right on the money, lol. I have felt the same way. Parents just consider schools a free babysitting service. Goes along with my theory that children have just become accessories to peoples lives.

Lorene