Blog Post 2

It ‘s hard for me to take a stance on whether or not we, as a community, should scrutinize teachers’ private lives because I think it is a case-by-case situation. For the most part, I think that teachers’ private lives should be left alone from criticism by parents, other employees, or students unless it interferes with their performance in the classroom. If a teacher chooses to be a model on the weekends, I think that is their right. However, if that teacher chooses to be an underwear model, I would argue that it would create a distraction in the classroom and that teacher would not be fit for the job. In addition, I think teachers must be aware of their social networking sites and delete or “untag” any post or image that shows them in an inappropriate way. I would also argue that as a community and as mature adults, parents must realize that teachers can enjoy a beer responsibly with friends and should not lose their jobs for it. I know that every teacher can’t be perfect, but I have to believe most teachers will recognize they are these student’s role models and will act appropriately online or out in public. I think that a learning environment can be created outside of the classroom and teachers should be able to interact with students if the students are better for it.

As a future teacher, if an image of me drinking a beer responsibly and legally came up on the Internet, I would use it as an example to teach students about the dangers of underage drinking or how to safely do so when they are of age. I think that we as educators must make an impact on our students’ lives in a positive way and if that can be achieved through social networking, it should be a possibility in the classroom. I think that technology will play a significant role in our future education system, and we need to teach students now how to be safe, smart, and sensible when ever we are on the Internet. I don’t think Facebook is necessarily the best option for students and teachers to communicate, but other sites such as Edmodo could be very beneficial for posting assignments, grades, or announcements. To prevent sanctions or criticism by appearing in something inappropriate, I would trust who I am as a person and avoid situations that could cause a conflict. I personally would not accept friend request from students just as a way to keep my work life and private life separate. In short, I think there is a time and place for everything and as a teacher could find a time to relax and enjoy myself away from cameras and students.