Is this the way it is now?

[Tri Girl]

I just think the cops don't want to ruin these kids futures. This is a time when they're applying to colleges and getting ready for the future, and an arrest would severly hurt their chances at getting into the school they want.

I'm not jumping on you, NoNo- don't take it that way. I'm not attacking what you said- just using as a reference for my rant. I do agree with you in part.

It's this attitude (kids are kids) that has gotten us in trouble as a society, tho. When does accountability for your actions start? College? It's far too late, then.
I don't want a kid's future to be ruined for some minor mistake, but when kids break and enter or trespass (clearly illegal acts), they need to be held accountable. Youth shouldn't be an excuse to do what you want. Kids (and 16-17 year olds are kids- but they know better) are sometimes "excluded" from laws because they're young, but when they suddenly become "adults" by law- they're supposed to follow the rules and be accountable all of a sudden?
When kids don't learn there are consequences young, they're not likely to learn when they're on their own in college. They were always rescued before, so they'll depend on that as an adult. Most of this has to do with their upbringing, tho. If you're taught there are consequences at home early on- you're likely to not be breaking the law at 16. But... I know kids make bad choices too because of ignorance/stupidity/immaturity, and while their future shouldn't be ruined- they should still face consequences. Fines (that mommy and daddy don't pay for them), community service, whatever. I see far too often kids getting into trouble for serious matters at school, but then going home and getting to play or receiving no punishment at all (especially suspensions- it's like a vacation for a lot of those kids because there are no consequences at home).


I'm sorry I get fired up about this. As a teacher, and someone who tries to hold students accountable for their actions and teach them responsibility, it drives me nuts how this society is so sue-happy and blames everyone for their mistakes. It just gets me all in wad... didn't mean to jump on anyone. I just can't keep my mouth shut sometimes. Personal accountability and responsibility have become things of the past. It's always someone else's fault (and it's not just kids I'm talking about here).