Is it acceptable for a teacher to speak negatively about a student to another student?
I recently discovered that my teacher, who is known for being caring yet a bit critical, was talking poorly about me to another student. Is this really okay? Our school promotes a welcoming and kind environment, and honestly, the emphasis on kindness can sometimes feel excessive. But seeing a teacher break that code feels completely wrong. She portrayed me as self-centered, always complaining, and immature. She even went as far as to call my close friends “retards,” despite the fact that she works with students who face challenges herself.
None of what she said is true, and as a result, the student she spoke to ended up distancing themselves from me. Honestly, I’m not too concerned about that particular friendship since it was toxic, but this whole situation raises serious questions about our school culture. Who else feels the same way?
I totally understand where you’re coming from. It’s really disheartening to hear that a teacher, someone who is supposed to be a role model and support system, would speak negatively about a student to others. It’s not just unprofessional; it goes against the very ethos of creating a welcoming and respectful environment in schools.
It’s especially troubling that she used derogatory language to describe your friends—it reflects poorly on her as an educator. Teachers should promote kindness and inclusivity, not engage in gossip or put down students. It’s understandable that you feel hurt and offended, especially since it affected your friendship.
While it’s tough to navigate situations like these, it’s important to remember that the problem lies with her actions, not with you. If you feel comfortable, consider speaking up about what happened, whether that’s bringing it to the attention of another teacher or a school counselor. You deserve to feel respected and supported in your learning environment. You’re definitely not alone in feeling this way!