When I was in college studying to become a teacher, one of my projects compared prisons to schools. The similarities were shocking: both environments require attendance by law, account for every minute of the day, impose constant surveillance, and restrict movement—even bathroom breaks require permission! While schools are, of course, not prisons, this comparison helps us understand why so many students feel trapped, bored, and disconnected. Worse yet, teachers often feel like the “guards” in this system—exhausted, stressed, and questioning if this is the right profession for them.

But here’s the good news: we, as teachers, have the power to disrupt this cycle. Small changes can shift the dynamic in our classrooms, fostering deeper respect and connection with students. Let’s dive into how we can move beyond rigid systems to create learning spaces where students truly thrive.

Recognizing the Parallels: Schools and Prisons

1. Rigid Schedules vs. Flexible Learning

In both schools and prisons, rigid schedules dictate the day, leaving little room for individual needs or autonomy. Imagine if your own job required you to constantly switch rooms and tasks without a moment to breathe. That’s what students experience daily.

Solution:

Allow students a few minutes to mentally transition into your classroom. This small shift can boost engagement and show students you respect their time and energy.

2. Restricted Movement

In both environments, movement is highly controlled. For students, even something as basic as going to the bathroom requires permission.

Solution:

Implement small changes, like using a single hall pass that students can take without asking permission. Let peer pressure encourage them to use their time wisely. This simple change demonstrates trust and reduces unnecessary friction.

3. Ownership of Space

Prisoners have little control over their environment, but students often have even less. In many classrooms, everything belongs to the teacher—from the seating arrangements to the rules of engagement.

Solution:

Reframe your classroom as a shared space. Ask yourself: Is this my classroom, or is it ours? Encourage students to take ownership by involving them in decisions about how the space is used.

4. Discipline

Both schools and prisons rely heavily on punishment to enforce rules, from detentions to suspensions. But does punishment teach lasting lessons, or does it just breed resentment?

Solution:

Instead of focusing solely on punishment, model reflection and accountability. When a conflict arises, acknowledge your role in the situation and apologize if necessary. This teaches students how to navigate conflicts with maturity and respect, even if they don’t immediately reciprocate.

5. Genuine Care

Here’s one key difference between schools and prisons: students suspect that their teachers’ care might not be genuine. Unlike prison guards, teachers have an opportunity to prove that they truly value their students.

Solution:

Learn every student’s name and greet them individually at the door each day. This small act of recognition shows students that they are seen and valued, building trust and connection over time.

Breaking the Cycle Starts with You

As teachers, we have the power to transform our classrooms into places of respect, empowerment, and genuine connection. It doesn’t take a massive overhaul to make a difference—small, intentional changes can have a profound impact.

Ready to Transform Your Classroom?

If you’re looking for practical ways to create a respectful and engaging environment, download The Respect Revolution Quick-Start Guide at www.respectrevolution.org/join. This free resource offers 8 transformational tools to help you connect with your students and foster a culture of mutual respect.

Visit our website at www.respectrevolution.org for more resources and insights, or check out our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/@respectrevolutionorg for actionable videos that dive deeper into these strategies.

Let’s start a revolution in education—one that prioritizes respect, trust, and authentic relationships. Together, we can move beyond the outdated, prison-like structures and create classrooms where both students and teachers thrive.

Final Thoughts

Thank you for being a high school teacher and for showing up every day to make a difference. You are the key to breaking this cycle. Let’s continue this journey together.

For more insights and strategies, visit www.respectrevolution.org and subscribe to our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/@respectrevolutionorg. See you there!