The Innovative Educator in the New York Times - Friending Students on Facebook

When speaking with educators we’ve discussed at length in person and through digital media the appropriateness of Friending Students on Facebook . Lately, I’ve moved more toward the perspective of principals like Chris Lehmann and Eric Sheniger who believe connecting with students in mediums commonly used to communicate is powerful and adult presence in the worlds of students (online or off) is crucial.

I’ve established a bit of a digital footprint in this area, so, when New York Times reporter Susan Feinstein was assigned a story about Friending Students on Facebook it wasn’t a surprise she came across my blog and discussions on the topic.

The result was today’s story: On Facebook, Telling Teachers How Much They Meant.

From the story...

At a time when public school teachers are being blamed for everything from poor test scores to budget crises, Facebook is one place where they are receiving adulation, albeit delayed.

The site has drawn more attention as a platform for adolescent meanness and bullying, and as a vehicle for high school and college students to ruthlessly dissect their teachers. But people who are 20, 30 or 40 years beyond graduation are using Facebook to re-establish relationships with teachers and express gratitude and overdue respect.

You can read my input about my reconnecting with a special former student on page two of the story.

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