The relationship between students and teachers can walk that fine line between friendship and professionalism. While some argue that positive teacher-student relationships can enhance learning and personal growth by letting students get comfortable enough to ask for help, others show concern about the potential risk of being too friendly in a professional setting. Despite the importance of maintaining professionalism, it is also evident that when approached with care and respect, friendship between teachers and students can contribute to a healthy and supportive educational environment.
Many students also see the value in forming these connections, especially for those who may not have a positive role model at home so at times they’ll have teachers who become that supportive adult figure they can rely on.
“I really think that creating a connection with an adult, especially one you can really trust, really benefits a student because they are able to reach out and not only help themselves, but also help others,” senior Venice Anderson said.`
For some teachers, building those connections goes beyond academics, creating a space where students feel truly seen and supported. Class of 2025 Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID), Integrated Math, and AP Statistics teacher, May Casas reflected on how she has been able to form lasting bonds with students and serve as a supportive figure in their lives in and out of the classroom.
“I have attended former students’ weddings, from 12 to 13 years ago, keeping in touch through Instagram, with them having my email, number, and just keeping in touch and just being there for them, like how I been a teacher for them,” Casas said.
While building friendships with teachers can create a supportive environment, it also comes with risks that shouldn’t be ignored. One concern is the possibility of crossing boundaries, which can lead to favoritism or even misunderstandings about the nature and intentions behind the relationship. Some students might start to see their teacher more as a friend than a professional figure, making it harder to respect rules or classroom expectations. Another issue resulting from these friendships, is the way it is perceived by others, which can lead to misunderstandings or assumptions.
Teachers should be aware of these issues that may arise from having close relationships with students, which is why they need to protect those boundaries while still being supportive of students.
“I think as long as there is a positive relationship between teacher and student, where it doesn’t cross the line of inappropriate questioning or relationship, to be a teacher is more of being just a teacher, being a friend and mentor, someone to be there for the students to be there as a parent or friend. I just think being on a professional level, it’s fine,” Casas said.
Finding the right balance of being a friend and maintaining authority is crucial for both students and teachers. Especially for teachers as they are the ones who aim to foster a safe and comforting environment, and should be respectful in order to receive that same respect from their students.
“I set boundaries in the beginning, where they respect your rules and I respect them, I can’t just say, oh, I’m the teacher and you need to respect me, respect is earned in both directions,” Casas said.
From a student’s perspective, the ability to feel connected to a teacher without losing respect for them is also important.
“Teachers can be both a friend and an authority figure, but there has to be a clear boundary. It’s not about being your best friend, but about having comfortable connections where you can talk openly without crossing any lines,” Anderson said.
When teacher-student relationships are built on respect and trust, it can help students learn to effectively communicate and express themselves. While it’s important to maintain boundaries, a connection between student and teachers can provide needed support, guidance, and encouragement. Finding the right balance comes down to respecting and understanding each other. When that is in place, friendships between students and teachers can improve their educational journey while still being professional.
(Jesselle Rosales)
