Teacher-Student Facebook Dilemna
Written by Gabrielle Batchelor on August 3, 2010.
HOUSTON – When it comes to social networking, Michael Garfield is a pro.
“You can’t go anywhere without finding someone on Facebook,” said Garfield, the self proclaimed “Mayor of Facebook.”
Also known as the High Tech Texan, Garfield is an Internet-savvy radio talk show host and a parent.
And with the start of another school year around the corner, he’s bringing up something else parents should think about.
“It used to be email and (websites) where they’re surfing,” said Garfield, referring to what parents should monitor. “Now they’re having their own Facebook accounts. You have to keep aware of who they’re talking to and when they’re online.”
That includes teachers.
Two years ago, a FOX 26 investigation uncovered several teacher-owned Facebook accounts.
We found questionable pictures of the people we trust to educate our children.
Since then, the issue’s been raised: should teachers and students be friends on social networking sites?
“I for one say no,” said Garfield.
“I have a personal policy that I will not friend a current student that is at the school I teach,” said Andy Dewey, a teacher at Carnegie Vanguard High School.
Yes, Dewey is on Facebook.