No one anticipates becoming the target of a major news story. Yet the media pursues every story about a teacher engaged in an inappropriate relationship with a student. In some cases, the story is true. In most, it’s not. But by the time the investigation is completed, it could be too late to save your reputation and your job even though you are falsely accused.
We know. You are saying, “This will never happen to me.” Let’s hope that’s true. But just in case, follow these strategies to protect yourself:
1. Maintain your “personal space” and don’t let any student invade it by touching you, hanging on to you, stroking your hair, playing with your tie.
2. Avoid the “double entendre.” Choose your words carefully and avoid cute or suggestive
remarks. Students may not understand you and distort the context in which you said them.
3. Don’t discuss sexually explicit topics with students -- nor song lyrics, jokes, or movies. Discourage and try to stop student conversations in your presence.
4. Do not be alone with a student in an enclosed space -- even a classroom – where you cannot be seen by another adult. Keep this in mind when you ask students to stay after class, come in for help or homework, take a make-up test, or when you are disciplining or detaining students. Make sure another adult is nearby and can see you.
5. Maintain a clear line between being “teacher” and being “friend.” If the line is blurred, students think it’s okay to be as comfortable with you as they are with siblings and friends. Refrain from socializing with your students outside of school.
If you are accused of potential wrongdoing, immediately contact your CTA representative and ask for a referral to an attorney. Do not agree to speak with any administrator or police without representation.