Responsibility to Students:
Protecting Students
As educators we all want what is best for students. Arriving late to class on a daily basis is concerning, and the educator in this video has the permission of the parent to bring the student to school. However, remember, being an educator is a public profession and the situation of an educator being alone with a student who is not their relative or guarding on a regular basis can lead to negative perceptions and accusations. In the situation of driving a student to and from school, there are a number of possible consequences for the teacher, the student, and the community. Some examples are:
The teacher could have a car accident, resulting in student injury or death;
the student could accuse the teacher of inappropriate behavior;
the student could take a picture of the teacher/student together and post online leading to public accusations;
other students and families could perceive this as favoritism.
If you or a colleague are faced with this same dilemma, reach out to your administration. There are resources available that you may not be aware of.