Teacher's Ethics or Do's & Don'ts: Don't Stand So Close To Me By The Police

Well, this week is the last week of summer and right now parents are scrambling to make sure that their kids are enrolled and that their books and uniforms are now in order. As for teachers and school administrators, they are refreshing their teaching skills and are currently updating their teaching materials to make sure they are prepared for the opening of classes. One thing that teachers both old and new should remember is that there should always be a certain degree or separation in class. The reason why I'm mentioning this is because there are times when teacher-student relations can get too close and when that happens, there's bound to be trouble. When it comes to teacher's ethics of strictly keeping it professional, the song "Don't Stand So Close To Me" by The Police comes to mind.

Some say that this song is about a teacher having feelings for a student while others believe it's the other way around. The reason why I used this song is because I taught high school history for four school years and I have to admit, I had fun doing so. Be that as it may, I always kept my relationships with my students strictly professional. There are certain lines that teachers and students shouldn't cross because the consequences can be catastrophic. A lot of times, it's the teacher who gets because he or she is suppose to be the responsible adult who guide and protect the student and you failed that responsibility. When that happens, the teacher is not ejected from the school but will be stigmatized for life because of getting "too close" to the student and will most like not be able to teach again.

When teaching, always concentrate on the students welfare. Although you should also be compassionate to your students, never lose sight of that teacher-student line. The best way to build teacher's respect is to able to come with presentations that are not only inform but encourage student participation as well. Remember you're there to teach and even if some students look stunning, their still half your age. Your suppose to keep them out of trouble not get into trouble with them. Remember their welfare is in your hands as a teacher and if you forget that, then you've just dug a hole for yourself and buried yourself alive.