6th-Grader Shoots Self in Leg in Class

(Alvin, Texas) A sixth-grade student at Passmore Elementary School took his father's 22-caliber pistol to school and was playing with it in his pocket when it fired, grazing his leg. According to Superintendent Greg Smith, the shot startled a substitute teacher who then asked what happened.

"That was my gun. I shot myself in the leg," the boy answered.

This is an obvious case where corporal punishment is warranted. Behind the woodshed or in a private room, using a wide Western belt, the boy's father should be told to drop his trousers and bend over. At least a dozen full force thrashes should be administered.