As an educator, writing a college recommendation letter is a personal commitment. I am essentially putting my name and reputation on the line to support a student as they transition into the next phase of their life. If a student engages in behavior that makes me uncomfortable—especially something as serious as a hate crime—I believe I have every right to rescind that recommendation.
It’s important to note that I am under no obligation to write recommendations in the first place. I do so willingly during my own time, outside of school hours, meaning it is not part of my job description or compensated work. These letters reflect my personal views and thus, I alone have the authority to retract one, although I would approach such a decision with significant thought and internal conflict.
Recently, a situation in a Massachusetts community sparked controversy after a teacher rescinded a student’s recommendation. In Stoughton, three teachers faced disciplinary action for their responses to a student who used tape to create a swastika on a school wall. Two of the educators, one being a military veteran, received reprimands for discussing the incident publicly after local law enforcement concluded that the student’s actions did not qualify as a hate crime. The school administration also decided not to inform parents about the incident, leading to further frustration among the teachers.
Such events are often viewed as “teachable moments.” However, the parents of the student involved felt it was “unfair” for the teachers to address their child’s actions, even in a constructive manner. This reaction is disheartening, especially as many educators across the country frequently witness parents defending their children instead of allowing them to face the consequences of their actions.
One of the teachers took a more profound step by contacting a college to rescind a previously written recommendation, providing a thorough explanation for this decision. The student’s parents subsequently lodged a formal complaint with the school board, arguing that the teacher’s action was detrimental to their child. In response, the superintendent issued a 20-day suspension to the teacher.
However, it is essential to understand that teachers are not bound by any contractual obligation to conceal a student’s behavior from colleges. Under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), schools can disclose student records without parental consent, particularly when it relates to college admissions. FERPA states that “a school may disclose education records… to another school in which a student seeks or intends to enroll.” This clearly applies to college applications, meaning a teacher is within their rights to rescind a recommendation and disclose relevant information pertaining to that decision.
From both a personal and professional standpoint, I would have no reservations about withdrawing my endorsement for a student who committed such an act. The behavior in question is a clear hate crime, justifying the revocation of any recommendation.
Every action has consequences. In this instance, the student should face disciplinary measures for their behavior, rather than the teachers who sought to educate others about bigotry and anti-Semitism, or who decided against providing a recommendation based on the student’s misconduct. The teacher made a responsible choice and deserves to be reinstated. As parents, we should strive to do more than defend our children, especially when their actions clearly warrant accountability.
In summary, it is crucial to recognize that teachers have the right to make decisions about their recommendations based on a student’s actions. This situation highlights the importance of addressing inappropriate behavior instead of shielding students from the consequences of their actions.
For more information on related topics, visit excellent resources like News Medical for insights into pregnancy and home insemination. Additionally, if you’re looking for quality materials for home insemination, check out CryoBaby’s Home Intracervical Insemination Syringe Kit.