Foul language and education

THE EDITOR, Sir:

I WRITE concerning a recent event that in my view is consistent with what is happening in the society at present.

I work in the Parkington Plaza area of Half-Way Tree, which also has a number of learning institutions that cater to students of varying age groups.

On Wednesday June 20, I was on my way to purchase my lunch when I saw a group of five or six students who are members of one of those institutions. The group consisted of young girls and boys who were teenagers.

One male member of the group, on recognising someone some distance away exclaimed, "##(expletive) no (name) that". As I was close to him I placed my hand on his shoulder and said, "You know that if your mother heard you she would not be proud of you."

Based on what transpired after, I regretted opening my mouth. The teenage schoolboy started to 'cuss' me with the most derogatory, filthy and unmentionable words. I was so taken aback by the retorts of the boy, that I did not dignify his words with a response.

What was even more interesting was that the girls did not utter a word of condemnation to the boy, even when he told me what to do with my mother; they just laughed.

I even called the institution the boy attended and tried to speak to someone in authority, but (as usual) they were in a meeting. I have not heard from them up to the time of writing. This is not strange though as the students, especially the boys from that institution have a history of bad behaviour.

I wonder if the parents of students attending that institution are aware of what their children are being exposed to.

I certainly will not be attempting to correct any schoolboy behaving in such a manner again, as I might not get off that easily the next time.

I am, etc.,

SYLVESTER ANDERSON

Red Hill

St. Andrew

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