Italy has reinstated the decision to suspend misbehaving pupils as concerns grow over aggression against teachers.
The "behavior marks" policy, similar to that first introduced by Benito Mussolini's government in 1924, is part of an education bill that was passed in Parliament and gives schools the power to retain pupils based simply on their behavior.
Students up to high school who score five or lower out of 10 on the best behavior grade will fail the year and have to repeat it even if they are doing well in class. Grades in conduct will also greatly affect the passing of the final matriculation exam.
"The reform of grades for conduct restores the importance of individual responsibility, makes respect for people and the public good key, and restores the authority of teachers", said the Minister of Education, Giuseppe Valditara.
The Italian Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, said that this change would "restore respect" in schools.
Fines from 500 euros to 10,000 euros have been imposed for acts of aggression or violence against school staff.
