Why Is Gum Prohibited in School?

Most schools outlaw gum chewing. But many people, particularly students, ask why. Contrary to common opinion, the rules aren't made just for teachers or for administrators. They are in place to benefit students as well.

Distraction

This is the least serious problem with gum chewing at school, but it is an issue regardless. Loud chewing and bubble blowing are distracting and irritating to students trying to learn and teachers trying to teach.

Destruction

Schools have to pay a lot of money to remove chewing gum that has been spit out or stuck in inappropriate places. Kids constantly find themselves stepping on gum and being fearful of the bottom of their desk that is loaded in layers of sticky gum, and this is even a problem at schools that don't allow gum.

Bullying

Although it wouldn't necessarily hurt someone, kids have been known to use gum to torment others. Placing gum on someone's seat before they sit down or spitting it in someone's hair are unfortunately common acts for kids and teens. This can ruin clothes and force the victime to cut off huge chunks of hair.

Health

Although gum may benefit teeth, kids don't need more sugar. Some sugar-free gums are available, but the school doesn't need to evaluate who is eating sugar-free gum and who isn't. It's much more simple to just ban gum outright.

Litter

Aside from the maintenance and sanitation problems associated with gum spit out and discarded, the wrappers also tend to get left behind. Kids often think of the tiny wrappers as no big deal and don't think twice about littering these small slips of paper or foil. Schools can save themselves quite a bit of clean up by just banning gum.

References

• One Path to Civic Pride? Ban Gum
• Ban Gum and Litter To Improve Discipline