Home | How It Works | Stats Login | Register         Case: Unclear Future In my many years of teaching high school, I have seen all types of students. Noora, a student from Pakistan, was one of the most special students. She was definitely one of the most intelligent I have had. She also had an extraordinary work ethic and interpersonal skills. When other students in her class had difficulty with any subject, Noora was there to help them. I thought she had a very bright future. Knowing her strong skills and knowledge in math and sciences, I thought she would go to a prestigious university. One day I decided to talk to Noora about her future plans and I was shocked by what I heard. She said that two months after graduating from high school, she was going to get married to the son of a family friend. She did not seem very disturbed by this. I went to talk to Noora's parents to explain to them what a great student she was and why they should reconsider their decision to marry her at such a young age. I told them that what they were doing was unfair. The very next day Noora's family sent a formal complaint letter to my school principal stating that I was being disrespectful their culture, and that it is their business to decide their daughter's future, not the teacher's. I was devastated when the principal informed me about this. I thought I was being a good teacher. I still do not want to give up on Noora's future. What should I do? Solution: (Rates are posted for this solution!) In situations such as these, we must be very careful not to overstep our boundaries as a educator. I think that praising Noora's performance and making her opportunities well known is as far as you can take this. Ultimately, a person has to make their choice. Choices are a reflection of beliefs and culture. Sadly, it is what it is. Best thing to do, is to keep communication high and let her parents know how well she does and that she can have many opportunities in life. Speaking to the parents to let them know of her opportunities and her outstanding performance will be much better received. Telling the parents that they should reconsider their plans is culturally insensitive.