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  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!)
Going right to the family about that was a little over the line. While I would just talk with Noora about places she could go, and maybe even have her talk with other girls that attend colleges in the area and talk about what they do. Help Noora look into colleges and what opportunities she would have. Also, ask her about her background and maybe she could even look into getting married and go to school.
 
     
     
  Rating
The suggested solution is respectful of the individual (student) No
The suggested solution is relevant to the case No
The suggested solution is reasonable (easy) for the teacher to implement No
The suggested solution is likely to solve the problem/issue Yes
The suggested solution is original No
Comments: While talking to Noora is a good idea, it wouldn't be the first thing i do. Singling her out could cause her to have adverse ideas about going to college. first talk to everyone and then address Noora if you feel it's necessary in the situation.
Rated On: October 25, 2021 9:42 pm
Rated By: Colleen Buckwalter