Should teachers interact with kids online?

More teachers are using social networks or text messages to keep in touch with students and build rapport, but online friendships may be considered inappropriate. Some officials are considering banning online "fraternization" between teachers and students.

The Missouri Legislature is debating a proposal to ban elementary-school teachers from having social networking friendships with their students. And the Lamar County School District board in Mississippi recently passed a policy that bans "fraternization via the Internet" between staff members and students. It also prohibits text messages to students except for educational purposes.

Should more communities consider such bans? The Arizona Daily Star examines the issues.


Tags: Social Networks, Technology, Students, Teachers, Education, K-12, Education by Sistrunk

Teachers need love, too

Ambreen Ishrat is a talented writer in Karachi, Pakistan, and creator of the web log her writings. She has worked as a teacher and a content and creative writer for an information technology (IT) firm. Armed with a master's degree with English literature, Ambreen also has put her skills to good use in journalism and editing. During a recent visit to Ambreen's site, I came across a charming post titled "My First Ever Love Letter." Take a break from your fast-paced day and relax with her writings.

Tags: Education, Teachers, Teaching, Students, Writing, Love Letters, Letters, Education with Sistrunk

Teachers tell why they teach

A group of teachers in Georgia all agree on one thing -- that their students keep them in the classroom despite all the challenges that come with their jobs. In the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, one teacher writes:

When you believe that all students can learn and have the opportunity to prove it, a wonderful thing happens. You see a light come on, a face smiles, a quiet determination, a few tears -- from students, parents and even teachers.

To read what other teachers wrote, click here.


Tags: Georgia Teachers, Teachers, K-12, Education, Education by Sistrunk