22 Things Teachers Do That Feel Illegal But Actually Aren’t
Teachers are often held to such high standards that even their slightest informal actions can seem almost illegal, but many of these behaviors are perfectly legal.
Discarding Students’ “Precious Work”
Realistically, grading every piece of paper that lands on a teacher’s desk is impractical. It might be better to dispose of them at home to avoid students finding their “precious work” in the trash.
It feels a bit illegal, even though it’s just practical.
Wearing Jeans
While some might raise eyebrows at the sight of jeans in the classroom, some educators still opt for this attire, even though it might feel like skirting the rules. The dynamic of teaching has evolved from traditional lecturing to more active, hands-on learning.
Educators find themselves engaging with students on the floor, at eye level, and dealing with interactive setups. For such versatile activities, comfort becomes key—who wants to perform a science experiment in stiff, formal wear?
Balancing the Noise of the Classroom
Too loud, and it seems chaotic; too quiet, and it’s just plain dull.
Teachers aim for that sweet spot where earning thrives and everything seems “normal”.
Dating a Student’s Parent
While it may seem awkward and potentially problematic for a teacher to have a romantic relationship with a student’s parent, such situations do occur (even though it’s questionable whether the parent should wait until their student graduates to avoid awkwardness).
Quick Breaks Between Classes
Every teacher knows the sprint: dash to the bathroom during a brief class break and hustle back, hoping nothing goes wrong in your absence.
More often than not, it feels like Murphy’s Law takes over the moment you step out.
Taking a Seat in Class
Sometimes, when an administrator walks in, teachers stand up so fast it’s like watching someone scramble to get dressed after an unexpected knock at the door.
Let’s face it—standing all day is tough, and sometimes you just need to sit down and give those feet a break!
Responding to Messages During Class
When parents insist on messaging teachers at all hours, responding during school hours becomes a necessity. It might seem like bending the rules, but maintaining timely communication is part of their job.
Utilizing Educational Videos
When teachers hit play on a YouTube educational video, it’s almost guaranteed that’s when the principal decides to drop in for an observation.
This often compels teachers to extensively justify the video’s educational value—as if they’ve been caught in some leisure activity instead of teaching.
Not “Dressing Up” for the Spirit
Not everyone is a fan of Crazy Hair Day or other spirited school events, and dodging the question, “Why didn’t you dress up?” can feel as though you’re letting down the team.
But really, it’s just about personal comfort, not dampening school spirit.
Raising their Voice in Class
It’s not uncommon for a teacher to raise their voice occasionally.
While it might feel as though they’re breaking the calm, composed educator persona, it actually serves as a real-world lesson for students—that everyone, even teachers, experiences a range of emotions.
Exiting with the Final Bell
Remarks such as “Must be nice to leave this early” are common as teachers exit with the students. The typical response—delivered with a hint of sarcasm—is, “Yes, you should try it sometime. Your mental health will thank you.”
It feels a bit like sneaking out, even though they’re just ending their day.
Declining Additional Duties
Despite desperately needing their prep periods, the shortage of substitutes often pressures teachers into accepting additional duties.
Prioritizing their own planning time can feel almost rebellious, given the circumstances.
Sending Students to the Office
There’s an unwritten rule: “Don’t send students to the office too often, or you’ll be seen as ineffective.”
But when classroom dynamics get tough, it feels like it’s the only legal option.
Missing Deadlines for Schoolwork and Attendance
Teachers (like anyone else) might delay certain tasks, whether from procrastination or just prioritizing more pressing duties.
Missing deadlines for things like lesson plans or professional goals might feel like being irresponsible, but it underscores a human aspect—they focus on what they deem most important, much like their students.
Opting Out of the Harvest Festival
Sometimes teachers just have to say it: family obligations can be more important than extra duties at work (and rightly so).
Volunteering for every event isn’t mandatory, and it might feel a bit rebellious to prioritize personal time, but it’s perfectly rational and legal.
Using Store-Bought Bulletin Board Sets
Not every teacher has the artistic edge to whip up handmade classroom decorations without it becoming a year-long project.
It may seem like cutting corners, but it’s just being resourceful.
Utilizing Student Messengers
Sending students on errands to relay messages about fire drills feels like passing secret notes in class.
It’s one of those small tasks that help keep the day moving smoothly.
Raising their Voice
Every teacher has moments where they might raise their voice. It may feel a bit taboo, like breaking the calm educator mold, but it’s a human moment that shows students everyone has emotions.
Expressing Dissatisfaction with Teaching
Voicing dissatisfaction in a field often painted with toxic positivity can feel like breaking a taboo. Yes, teachers choose this profession for the love of educating, but that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t advocate for fair wages and respect. Speaking up about these issues may feel risky, but it’s crucial.
Multitasking Through Meetings
It’s a common sight: teachers discreetly grading papers during staff meetings, their eyes moving around like they’re partaking in some undercover operation.
It’s multitasking at its finest—though teachers might look like they’re trying to sneak a peek at someone else’s exam answers.
Interacting During Recess Duty
During playground duty, even brief interactions with other adults—while keeping eyes on the students—can make teachers feel as though they’re neglecting their duties.
Conversations are often held with minimal expression, almost like a covert operation.
The Dilemma of Calling in Sick
Calling out sick comes with a heavy dose of guilt, knowing your colleagues are picking up the slack. Ironically, showing up unwell and spreading germs can feel just as wrong.
It’s a lose-lose situation where both options seem a bit illegal.
21 Obvious Signs of People with Low Intelligence
