robo said it best.

Most teachers have good classroom management and discipline techniques that usually work without resorting to physical violence.

Occasionally they need the backing of the principal.

They also need the support of parents and the community.

They absolutely need government funding to provide for students who have needs over and above what can reasonable be expected in the classroom environment.

Unfortunately, teachers are not given that support. They are expected to be babysitters, social workers and cops. Teachers are not trained to do this.

When a teacher is assaulted, the principal and the school board should not need the union to pressure them to take action. Unfortunately, that is often the only protection a teacher has.

Unless society as a whole respects the teaching profession, the students certainly will not respect the teachers.