As a teacher I try to be aware of my “public” persona and model the behaviors I desire from my students. I am very aware of the words I chose and how I act. We have all heard the stories of “bad” teachers and how their behaviors have been broadcast out on social media. Recently here in metro Detroit: a recent news report talked about pictures of a teacher at a popular “beach” party emerging on Facebook. It is becoming apparent that mistakes now last forever. Everyone should be careful. I am more concerned with behavior that does not hit the media but has a greater effect on our students.
Last week, I was enjoying watching the Detroit Tigers win the American League Pennant with my 8 year old son. As usual, I was also reading twitter during the game. After Austin Jackson homered to put the game out of reach (7-1) in the seventh inning, I noticed a tweet. “Regardless of the outcome of the Yankees-Tigers game, Detroit is still the worst city on Earth.” I was taken aback. I live in Detroit (or at least the Metro Area). I have been to third world countries that I felt were worse. Responded saying it was a bit harsh. Shook it off thinking about someones emotionally upset about his team’s performance. A bit latter I noticed another tweet, “F*** A-rod, F*** Granderson, F*** Cano, You all Suck”. This was coming from someone I respected on twitter. I was shocked. I quickly replied “If you are a true fan you would not model such poor sportmanship in public. Bad example for the next generation.” Sure it might be ok to say that to a friend at the bar or the person sitting next to you at the game, but to the world on twitter? It seemed like the middle school behavior I am attempting to change.
Society needs to remember that when ever and where ever we are in public we are modeling behaviors for the next generation. Sadly, not enough people are thinking when they model behaviors. We often forget that something said to a friend should not be blasted across the internet for all to see. It seems people are too quick to type, out an insult or criticism and broadcast it to the world. What if it was said in a classroom? Wouldn’t it be written up as bullying?
Sweat to Inspire 