We have to analyze this situation:
A teacher demeans her students. The teacher calls her students lazy and says they will end up in remedial classes. She states that anyone with less than a B "obviously doesn't care." The teacher sometimes refuses to answer students questions on the grounds that they can look up the answers themselves. She says "christ! i don't understand why anyone would not have gotten this answer!" As a result, her students are unable to concentrate out of fear for being belittled further.
a). Can action be taken against this teacher? What can her students do (I said speak with the principal, however would the principal be likely to confront the teacher about this?)
b). Could the teacher be fired?
c). Does this violate any rules?
I would hope the principal would take some kind of action. It's likely that s/he's had other complaints against the teacher for the same reasons.
Whether a teacher can be fired is dependent upon the supervisor's diligence. Tenure laws demand a lot of documentation and proof of sufficient cause to fire a teacher. The procedure is for the superintendent to take his/her findings to the Board of Education, which is the only body that can fire a teacher. At this time, state tenure laws must be followed.
I don't know of any "rules" against unethical classroom behavior -- but it's obviously unprofessional and probably enough to get the teacher fired. The key is the supervisor's extensive documentation.
IT is somewhat a curiousity, but if you change the word "teacher" to "parent", what you suggest for the child?
I know, I am off track.
Actually, I was thinking of a student/parent conference with a chem student, and the parent did that to the kid. It changed my behavior with that student.
a) Yes, action can be taken against this teacher for her inappropriate behavior. Her students can start by speaking with the principal or another trusted adult at the school, such as a counselor or administrator. They should explain the situation, provide specific examples of the teacher's demeaning behavior, and express how it has negatively impacted their ability to learn and concentrate. It is important for the students to be honest and provide as much evidence as possible to substantiate their claims.
As for the likelihood of the principal confronting the teacher, it can vary depending on various factors such as the school's policies, the credibility of the students, and the severity of the teacher's behavior. However, a responsible principal should take the students' concerns seriously and thoroughly investigate the matter.
b) The possibility of the teacher being fired depends on the school's policies, local laws, and the outcome of any investigations conducted by the school administration. If the evidence supports the students' claims and it is determined that the teacher has engaged in inappropriate behavior, then disciplinary action can be taken, which may include termination of employment.
c) The teacher's behavior described in the situation does raise concerns and may violate several rules or codes of conduct, depending on the specific policies and guidelines set by the school district or the education authority. Some potential violations could include:
1. Professional conduct: Teachers are expected to maintain professionalism and treat students with respect, avoiding any form of demeaning or belittling behavior.
2. Code of ethics: Most educational institutions have a code of ethics that requires teachers to promote a positive and supportive learning environment, refrain from demeaning or derogatory language, and provide timely assistance to students when needed.
3. Harassment or bullying policies: The teacher's behavior may be seen as a form of harassment or bullying, as it creates a hostile and intimidating environment for the students.
It is important to consult the school's specific policies and guidelines to determine if any rules have been violated in this particular situation.