Here in America, I had a teacher in 9th grade who was rigid on protocols too. I know what it is to have a teacher like that whack you with a ruler or paddle. Things have changed dramatically, though, since I was a kid in school. Corporal punishments are not permitted in school now. My son just finished his freshman year in high school (9th grade) and, while he's been disciplined in school a couple of times, there has never been the slightest hint of anyone hitting him.