New in-school disciplinary academy draws praise, raises questions
by Benjamin Herold
Wilfredo Cruz is seated in the back of his 8th grade English class, scanning the room.
When he spots another student with his head down, Wilfredo whispers the boy’s name, trying to get his attention.
Last year, this would have been the start of trouble. As a 7th grader at John B. Stetson Middle School, Wilfredo would often simply walk out of class to wander the halls. He was suspended multiple times and given detention countless others, for offenses ranging from writing graffiti on school property to fighting to bringing a BB gun to school.
He was not alone – there were 54 “serious incidents” reported at Stetson last year, including 21 assaults on staff and 20 assaults on students.
This year, however, things are different – for Wilfredo and for Stetson.
When Wilfredo gains the attention of the sleepy student in his English class, he tersely tells the boy to sit up straight. Wordlessly, the student complies. The teacher continues her lesson without interruption.
Photo: Benjamin Herold
"I went into school thinking it was nothing different except the uniforms," says ASPIRA Stetson 8th grader Wilfredo Cruz, 13. "But nothing is the same as last year. I actually feel like I am learning something."
Photo: Benjamin Herold
"I went into school thinking it was nothing different except the uniforms," says ASPIRA Stetson 8th grader Wilfredo Cruz, 13. "But nothing is the same as last year. I actually feel like I am learning something."
“I couldn’t get [Wilfredo] to stay in his class last year,” marvels Principal Renato Lajara. “But
