Is It Favoritism or Just a Misunderstanding?

By Samantha Puentes, Writer | February 14, 2024

Photo courtesy of Samantha Puentes

Have you ever felt like a teacher has it out for you? Maybe they constantly call you out in class, grade you unfairly, or seem to ignore you when you need help? For many students, these feelings can make school an uncomfortable place to be. But, is the teacher really against them, or is it a misunderstanding?

One common issue faced by students is feeling singled out by teachers.

Whether it's being put on blast or being the only one reminded of the rules when clearly others are disobeying as well, it can feel personal.

Sandra Ale, a sophomore at Carson High School, shared an unfortunate experience with an instructor.

“One time it was over an assignment, and he said my grade out loud without asking if I wanted to share my grade,” said Ale.

These moments can make students feel embarrassed and targeted, even if the teacher didn’t mean it that way.

“It just makes the class feel, I don’t know, unfair,” added Ale.

Another frustration is feeling ignored when asking for help.

Generally, teachers are always making it known that students should feel free to ask for help.

Yet, some teachers go against that suggestion, or do they?

“I had to do a project alone because the teacher assigned students together, but when it came to me, she assigned me with someone who didn’t show up to school at all. And I asked what the project was about but she ignored me,” said CHS senior Gabrielle Duran.

That being said, students may feel that others are favored or preferred which leads to preferential treatment. Maybe other students get away with breaking rules, or like with Gabrielle's situation, being left with a partner who is irresponsible.

But, still, maybe that isn’t the case but just a misunderstanding.

CHS business instructor Mrs. Mertens said, “I just treat everyone like they are my children. That’s all. I mean I would treat them the way I would want my children to be treated.”

Yet, even if it is a misunderstanding, conflicts like these can be left unattended. So, how can misunderstandings between teachers and students be resolved?

“I have a one to one with them, but if they don’t want to talk with me, then I would call in support,” shared Mrs. Mertens.

Additionally, Duran suggested that issues “can be resolved by having their boss (principal) and the students' parents and the teacher to talk it out, see what the reasoning is.”

At the end of the day, misunderstandings between teachers and students don’t have to go unresolved. Open communication, whether it’s a one-on-one talk or involving parents and staff, can help both sides feel heard. After all, a little effort can go a long way in making the classroom a better place for everyone.