In Italy, students will have to think about more than going to class, doing their homework and passing exams. They should pay particular attention to their behavior in the classroom. And not just to avoid worst-case scenario fights or expulsions. Their behavior will become as important as their knowledge of Mathematics or History. So much so that they will receive a “conduct grade” that could ruin their coursework if it is too low.

This is also being considered in the new law on education of the far-right Government of Giorgia Meloni, which has just received approval from the Italian Chamber of Deputies, and this measure is accompanied by loud debates. There are those who believe this will help produce “more responsible students.” And who sees echoes of Benito Mussolini’s education policy and an “oppressive instrument”?

What happened? There are new developments in education legislation in Italy. The country’s House of Representatives has given final approval to a rule that would, among other things, allow schools to suspend students based on their behavior, ANSA reported. The measure, supported by branch minister Giuseppe Valditara, was adopted with 145 votes in favour, 97 against and 7 abstentions. The full draft text can be accessed on the Italian Chamber’s website and includes important new features.

Pay attention to manners in classrooms. One of the most relevant aspects is that it talks about something. “vote for behavior”behavior grades that will be responsible for assessing exactly that: your behavior in classes. Basically, as Italy’s main news agency ANSA summarized, the centers will carry out an assessment that will be very important for each student. For middle and high school students, its operation will be similar to exams in Math, Chemistry, History… or any other subject with grades ranging from 0 to 10.

If the student’s “behavior score” does not reach the minimum level, the center may suspend the course. In fact, you can repeat it regardless of your academic level or knowledge. The system will also be demanding. The agency notes that only high school graduates who score six will have to take or study for a civics exam. If a young person wants to stand out at the end of the course, it will not be enough to get the best grades in Mathematics, History or Philosophy. You’ll need an equally outstanding rating for attitude.

Is there more? Yes, the system provides for large fines in case of attacks on school personnel. Guard It is stated that sanctions for attacks will vary between 500 and 10,000 euros, and this money will be used to purchase teaching materials. The student’s expulsion from the school or institute does not prevent him/her from attending the center. Depending on the length of the sentence, you will need to take behavior classes or do community work.

The Minister of National Education explains: “The institution of removal will change, there will be more schools, not less, for the student who violates the rules of coexistence. In the most serious cases, employment in solidarity citizenship activities will be provided.” To support the work of teachers and school staff to ensure that young people are clear not only about their rights, but also about the duties that come with belonging to a community, starting with respect for others.

“More responsible”. According to Valditara, this measure represents progress and defends its benefits. Convinced that the reform “reestablishes the importance of individual responsibility, respect for people and the public”, the minister said: “The law approved by the Parliament represents a fundamental step towards the construction of a school system that empowers children and returns authority to teachers.” .”

A few months ago the research agency Eurispes published a report stating that one in four Italian secondary school teachers has been attacked by a student at least once during their career, and around 18% have received threats. “We have heard too many cases of indisciplined behavior; it is right that students are invited to reflect on their responsibilities,” comments the president of the ANP administrators’ association.

“Print tool”. At least some of the student body isn’t clear that the changes represent progress. Student union coordinator Tommaso Martelli warned Guard He said the measure would only serve to “reinforce an authoritarian culture” and made no secret of his concerns about how it would be implemented in the daily life of classrooms. “The possibility of being suspended for violating the rules makes behavior notes an additional oppressive tool.”

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