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What if the teacher becomes the bully? - Part 2

I was just reading some of my classmates’ posts and came across Tirza’s post titled “What if the teacher becomes the bully?” It made me reflect on some experiences from high school that I hadn’t thought about in a while – specifically, moments where the line between authority and bullying got blurred.

I remember a Catalan teacher once made a comment to one of my classmates about his weight, saying he “looked like a beard.” It might have sounded like a joke to some, but it wasn’t funny – especially because this student was already being teased by others for his appearance. The teacher’s comment, instead of helping or correcting the situation, actually gave the rest of the class permission to keep laughing at him. The student would laugh along too, probably trying to hide how he really felt, but you could tell it hurt him deeply.


That moment stuck with me because it showed how much power teachers really have. Their words can either stop bullying or make it worse. And when a teacher joins in – whether intentionally or not –it sends a message that mocking someone is acceptable.


It’s for that reason that I believe it’s crucial for teachers to be role models of empathy and respect. They should be aware of how their comments, even if meant as jokes, can affect students. Creating a safe environment means being careful with words, calling out inappropriate behavior, and always supporting the ones who are vulnerable.


Teachers aren’t just educators – they’re leaders. And when they speak, their words carry weight. Let’s make sure those words build others up, not break them down


- Carla Cachadiña

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