Some of Chapter 10 was a bit of a no brainer. I guess some people might need to be reminded that students are not to be seduced, dated or otherwise molested in any fashion. Thanks Mary Kay Letorneau, Pamela Rogers (pictured left) and others. This was the no brainer part. I think male or female, crossing that line dictates that there are more than ethical boundaries that have been breached.
Now, with that said, while I had students reading during my lesson, I did walk around and slightly tap boys and girls on the shoulder to indicate they should read next. I think the "common sense" rule would say that this might get me in trouble as well. Learning names will avoid this interaction altogether. Which should be easier in my own classroom. We all might have a similar practice we do. The key is to be mindful of it and try to eliminate it.
Christenbury's thoughts on "students privacy or rights, where are we supposed to learn this? Is there a handbook? Policy statement? Class for beginning teachers at a school? I'm hazy on what is reportable. Some things are, again, no brainers such as abuse and suicidal thoughts.
"Breaking the Rules," although it appears we will all engage in the act at some time in our profession, doesn't sound all that appealing. I can see doing things that may not be "by the book" such as letting a student write about Wicca, but the incident with Ray was an episode in sheer stupidity. After all, Christenbury does include the quote from Nieto, "Teachers are not miracle workers. Nor are they social workers or missionaries." We need to remember this is still a job, with an employer and the possibility of being fired. I don't see myself breaking anything for several years of teaching.
~Stan
2 comments:
Ya, it was pretty much common sense, but there are some weird people out there. I have really learned a lot on how to how to handle situations like this- don't ever be alone in room with door closed with opposite sex (or even same sex for that matter), and basically.. don't touch your students; you would rather be safe than sorry.
Thanks for the picture...that made me giggle. My in-laws (both are teachers) have told me some pretty scary stories about students seeking revenge on teachers for a bad grade or something by spreading rumors that they touched them inappropriately/slept with them/etc. It's really scary to think that a rumor, regardless of the validity, can completely ruin your career and/or life. I agree that this chapter was a no-brainer, but it was a nice change of pace to me!
Post a Comment