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!) I understand your concern for Noora's future, but the approach you took was not the best way to handle the situation due to Noora and her family's culture. Noora's parents are left feeling disrespected and angry after the discussion you had with them. My first suggestion would be to speak with your principal to explain your reasoning for the situation. Next, I would write a letter or meet with Noora's parents to apologize and explain to them how bright there daughter is in your class. I would then complete a mini-lesson with your class pertaining to options after graduation. This addresses all students in your class and provides them with various options to consider that are suitable to them. This provides an opportunity for Noora to learn about college and the benefits and careers that come from attending.                 Rating The suggested solution is respectful of the individual (student) Yes The suggested solution is relevant to the case Yes The suggested solution is reasonable (easy) for the teacher to implement Yes The suggested solution is likely to solve the problem/issue Yes The suggested solution is original Yes Comments: I liked your approach too this situation and where you stated that he should have talked to the principal about his reasoning behind speaking with the parents and the option of creating a presentation about after graduation options Rated On: May 28, 2015 5:46 pm Rated By: Kalie Walker                 Rating The suggested solution is respectful of the individual (student) Yes The suggested solution is relevant to the case Yes The suggested solution is reasonable (easy) for the teacher to implement Yes The suggested solution is likely to solve the problem/issue Yes The suggested solution is original Yes Comments: Great suggestions! I love to get the other students involved. Making everyone aware of their options is very important! Rated On: May 31, 2015 10:18 pm Rated By: ezyXyh