Attention Male Educators: Leave the Hugging for Someone Else

Eight long years ago, I started my career as a middle school teacher in Florida. It was a constant struggle of classroom management, grading papers, parent conferences, and professional development seminars. There never seemed to be a moment off and...well...that really has not changed all that much, except for the privilege of having some time during the summer to refuel.

In those eight years I have become wiser and experienced to handle most situations. But one golden rule I have set forth for myself and other male educators as well. Never, under any circumstances in a middle school setting, hug a student. This can ultimately lead to serious problems that can spiral out of control.

Students in middle school often believe that they are under a spotlight and require constant attention. They are in the greater stages of their adolescence and hormones are starting to wreak havoc on their emotional and physical attributes. Translation for parents who may be reading: What once was your child, your son and daughter who used to play with Barbie Dolls and GI Joe's, is starting the wretched and difficult transformation into adulthood. It is an awkward stage in which middle schoolers can often respond in uncertain ways, leaving parents as well as teachers baffled. One essential truth remains, particularly for the male educator, and most especially for one that may only be in their 20's or 30's: Do not hug the kids.