Boundaries

It is easy to take for granted that students are well aware of boundaries but, once again, assume nothing! Clarifying boundaries in your classroom ensures that you and the students are on the same page. Start with basic concepts, as with these recommended boundaries:

Have students call you by a formal name, not your first name, to maintain a distinct line of professionalism.

Do not allow students to put one another down.

Let each student have individual space in the classroom.

Determine from the beginning how much students will know about your personal life.

It is wise to set boundaries for parent–teacher interactions as well. Setting boundaries for situations involving parents shows professionalism and will increase your confidence for conferences, volunteers in the classroom, and calls home. To help you set these boundaries, consider the following questions.

Do you want parents to call you by a formal name or your first name?

Do you want parents to call you at home?

Do you want parents to make an appointment to speak with you?

How much personal information do you want parents to know?

For more information on relationships with students and parents, see specific alpha entries, such as Parents, Parent–Teacher Conferences, Friending Students, and Open House.