"Friending students; posting pictures of partying, or sending overly casual messages or texts to students, parents or others may lead to professional difficulties that you may not anticipate. While the use of technology has changed dramatically over time, the standards of professionalism have not changed. Interactions must be respectful, courteous, professional and boundaries must be maintained. Members are expected to be friendly, but not "friends" with their students.
ETFO has seen an increase in cyberbullying by electronic media in the education community. Members of ETFO can be target of this. Sometimes members initiate careless electronic communication which may have unintended, but grave professional consequences.
Some tips:
- Communication with parents, students and other members of the education community is best done verbally or face to face in a professional and structured manner;
- Casual, off hand, joking remarks or expressions of support via electronic media are easily misconstrued;
- Pictures of you, chat discussions you initiate or participate in, and email or text messages between you and others create a permanent record. Reflect on your electronic postings;
- Advise friends and family not to post pictures of you on social media sites without first asking your consent;
- Slow down. Don't press "send" until you evaluate whether or not your postings, texts, emails will be considered professional and appropriate in the education community;
- You are not your students' "friend". You are their teacher and must maintain a professionally appropriate relationship. In doubt, call to find out.
Staff in Professional Relations (PRS) can be reached at 416-962-3836 or 1-888-838-3836
See also ETFO's website - Advice for Members
