Kermit. My understanding is that 54 knots is the usual certificated 1.3Vs for the C152. In other words the normal landing speed. After all, the landing distance charts are based upon 54 knots and surely that is what students should be using (calm wind permitting).
I thought all aircraft certification for landing was based broadly on 1.3Vs, for example Chieftain, Seneca, Warrior, B737 and so on. These are the "normal" approach speeds on which their landing charts are based. There is no sweat using these speeds.
So how come the "normal" approach speed you mentioned is 65 Knots in the C152? Seems awfully in excess of the correct manufacturer's recommended threshold speed to me and will lead to considerable float and long touch-down. The so called "short field" landings are an old war-time operational landing at 1.1Vs - same as aircraft carrier landings.