Earlier this year, Head of School Byron Lawson held a special assembly with the middle school boys to discuss hurtful speech and his experiences with rude and disrespectful language.

   A significant cause of the issue lies in the normalization of explicit language in media. According to the Motion Picture Association, 54% of popular movies are rated PG-13 or higher, and studies have shown that a significant portion of these movies contain profane language or mature themes.

Additionally, the British Board of Film Classification found in 2021 that there may be a generational divide in regards to swearing. In a survey of 1,000 people, 46% of Gen-Z members responded that they frequently use strong language as opposed to only 12% of people aged 55-64.

   This trend leaves younger viewers exposed to language that may not be suitable for the school environment. 

   “[Students] hear it so often that they think nothing of it when they use that language,” Science teacher Daniel Munsey said.

   Most teachers agree that this language is completely unacceptable and that there needs to be a change, but some students wonder what can be done to help them avoid using this language.

   “Understanding that, you know, there’s a time and a place to use this language, and especially at school, that is not the time and or place to use that type of language,” Munsey said.

   Teachers aren’t the only ones worried about how the language of students is used. Students are also concerned about their language. They note that certain phrases and terms can easily be misunderstood.

   “Being more cautious given even things that you think might be harmless can be taken in the wrong way and people think it’s harmful,” eighth grader Liem Murphy said. 

   In general, the administration agrees that the trend in language usage is not okay, and there are certain steps that students should take to help them refrain from using this language and avoid it completely. Most teachers recommend self reflection and pausing before making critical remarks

   “It’s always that moment of pause before you speak, particularly if there’s a strong emotional component,” Middle School Head Stephanie Dryden said. 

   The challenge of managing language in schools is complex. While faculty and staff strive to create an atmosphere that discourages offensive speech, they also recognize the need for understanding and empathy as students navigate their way through a media-heavy culture.