From Slate Magazine · Jenée Desmond-Harris, Lizzie O’Leary · · 1m 50s
Student Teacher's Unlikely Request
A former student teacher faces a confusing request after years of mentoring.
In brief
A former student teacher faces a confusing request after years of mentoring. A former student teacher who mentored a queer teen now faces a relationship request despite past power dynamics. Originally reported by Slate Magazine.
Mentor and Student
A student teacher mentored a quiet teen who used their club as a study space after hurting their knee.
Student's Struggles
Vee, a 17-year-old, shared family divorce, college challenges, and hopelessness with the teacher.
The Kiss
Vee kissed the teacher when they were 17 and the teacher was 22, causing immediate avoidance.
Graduation and Distance
Vee graduated college and is thriving, but the teacher now faces a flirty message from their former student.
Teacher's Confusion
The teacher feels uneasy about pursuing a relationship despite being in middle school now and having a five-year age gap.
Friends' Divide
The teacher's friends split into 'full-speed ahead' and 'don't touch it with a ten foot pole' groups.
Purple State Concerns
The teacher works in a 'purple state' and fears being labeled a groomer due to the relationship.
Expert Advice
Prudie and two experts debate whether the teacher should pursue a relationship with their former student.
Legal and Ethical Concerns
The relationship is legally possible but risks professional backlash and emotional complications.
Past Kiss Impact
The teacher's past reaction to the kiss suggests a shift in their feelings about the student.
Expert Consensus
Experts agree the relationship could end badly and the teacher should avoid it for now.
Recommended Action
The teacher should keep the relationship in a drawer and focus on being a positive influence without risk.
Final Advice
The teacher should wait two years before considering a relationship to ensure mutual readiness.
What Happens Next
The teacher continues mentoring without pursuing a relationship, prioritizing safety and trust.
The short version
A former student teacher who mentored a queer teen now faces a relationship request despite past power dynamics.
