From Discipline to Diplomacy || Classroom Cultures from Gen Z to Gen Alpha

How Classroom Culture Changed from Gen Z to Gen Alpha

A teacher’s heartfelt reflection on three generations of learners, learning, and lost connections.

Boards changed. Behaviour changed. Let’s not change our values.

Gen Z (Part 1)

The Era of Respect and Relationships

“Sir, Madam… please hit or slap me slowly, it hurts.”

Chataak… shataak!

“Please excuse me, I won’t repeat it again!”

Teachers used harsh words, but students took them positively. Parents supported the teachers and even scolded their children in front of them. There was immense respect for educators.

No parents were called for minor issues; matters were resolved within the classroom itself. Written applications were the only means of communication—no emails, no WhatsApp messages.

The management, principal, teachers, parents, and students worked together like one big family—caring, guiding, and celebrating every event wholeheartedly.

Gen Z (Part 2)

The Shift Begins

“Teacher, you can’t hit me. It’s not allowed.”

“Why do you always target me? Others are also doing it.”

Even small issues started reaching parents. Teachers could no longer scold or use strong language. A simple reprimand was often seen as public harassment.

Emails began flying for every minor concern. Teachers were treated more like employees than mentors. The warmth of human connection started fading.

The system grew layered and formal -Trustees, Principals, Vice Principals, Coordinators, HODs, In-charges, Homeroom Teachers, Subject Teachers - protocols everywhere.

Endless meetings, discussions, and paperwork. Too much pressure… too little appreciation.

Gen Alpha

The Digital Diplomats

“I didn’t do anything! 

He did… she did!”

With perfect expressions, stories are created. Behind serious faces - hidden laughter.

Discipline has become a major challenge. Learners make fun of teachers without fear. Parents communicate mostly through email or WhatsApp. The human touch is missing.

Teachers now stand sandwiched between parents and management. Diplomacy dominates.

Documentation outweighs emotions. Mental, physical, and emotional well-being often take a backseat - only work matters.

In some countries, due to rising educated unemployment, the respect for teachers is slowly diminishing.

From the Desk of the Author

I have seen all faces minutely.

I began my teaching journey in 1992 and have taught across schools, junior colleges, and degree colleges. I’ve experienced classroom cultures of State Boards, National Boards, International Boards and Universities. 

Love, respect, and appreciation drew me into this noble field, even when other attractive career options were available.

Today, it has become difficult to judge people’s intentions. More than reading books, time goes into watching CCTV footage. To survive in this high-technology era of education, we need self-motivation and mutual appreciation - without troubling authorities unnecessarily.

A Call for Balance

Every generation has its strengths and struggles. Change is natural - but connection is essential.

If technology is our new tool, humanity must remain our foundation.

Trustees need vision, Principals need courage, Teachers need freedom, Parents need trust, and Learners need values.

Let us not forget - education is not just about systems or screens.

It’s about souls connecting to shape a better tomorrow.

If this post touched your thoughts or reminded you of your own experiences, do follow Mathivation HUB to stay connected with my upcoming reflections on learning and life.

Rakesh Kushwaha

Educator | Writer | Founder – Mathivation HUB

Blending Mathematics, Motivation, and Mindfulness.