Teachers: Have you ever had a connection with one of your students? (Not Romantically- More Details)?

Question

No, not romantically.

Anyways, Have you ever had that one student who you just wanted to be friends with?

They don't really seem like a student to you, but more as a friend (Maturity level)?

Like, they look up to you, want to be like you and they're just great to be around?

How much did/do they actually mean to you?

When they leave/left the school, did/will you miss them and do/will they come back?

If not, will you guys keep in contact?

Thanks for your time!

Answer 1

When I was younger, and closer to my students' age (late high school), I often connected strongly with some students and even formed friendships with them.  As I get older, I find it more important to maintain a professional distance from my students.  That one student you really connect with can make your days (and classes!) a lot more fun and interesting, but I think it's important to remember that teachers and students have different roles and perspectives, and the student may see the relationship differently than you do.  When the boundaries get blurry, feelings can get hurt and other complications can arise.  I think it's fine to enjoy some students more than others, but I think you have to keep in mind that you're their teacher, not their friend.

Answer 2

wtf thats a stupid *** question

Answer 3

I had two middle school students once who were really friendly with me and thought I was their adopted mum.  Which I neve encouraged and when it got a little `too` friendly I had to have a little word and ask them to back off a little.

I`ve also had an art student who just `got` everything we talked about.  She had some really good ideas of her own and always talked about her work in detail.  I was really pleased when she got into uni for her arts degree, but we didn`t keep in touch as I don`t think that is a good idea.  I hope to see her exhibit sometime though.

Answer 4

Not friends with... I teach 3rd grade.   I also teach piano and have a great relationship with those students.   They mean a lot to me, as do all the students in my class.   I cry every year on the last day of school when they have all left and I'm alone in that big room (but that only lasts a little while as I have to clean my room and take down my stuff).    Then I start praying for the next year's students that God will place in my "care".   I had a student email me last evening.   All these kids have a special place in my heart and from the cards and letters I have gotten, they seem to feel the same way about me, too.

Answer 5

I am not a teacher, but I am a student.

I've had many teachers that I made strong connections with. (in a non-sexual way. Maturity level is low on here.)

I kept in contact with my six grade teacher, and we still talk through e-mail, and I am a sophomore.

Also my freshman English teacher, I became really close with her. I can tell her anything, and I've confided in her with one of my problems that I don't tell many. I think being a teacher is something that should come around more appreciative. You guys do so much for your students.

Answer 6

I like this question. I'm not a teacher, but I was a student that had this kind of relationship with one of my high school teachers.

I frequently go back and visit her in her classroom, and I value her opinion as much as any of my family members.