There are many things that contribute to a classroom environment, and each one creates a different atmosphere. The bonds between teachers and students can differentiate the overall feel of every classroom.

“I think, especially in this setting, it’s important because they are going to want to learn more in your class. If you’re not trying to be real with them, they are not going to want to come to your class,” Aubrey Corn, FACS teacher, said. “If you build respect or rapport with them, they are going to be more likely to listen to things, take in things, ask questions when you are learning, and then they know when we are chill and having fun.” 

Each year, new relationships are formed, and the first day of school is an essential part of starting them. Even though days like these can be stressful, putting effort toward getting to know students can create an accepting community.

“On the first day of school, both students and teachers can be nervous; but I feel like when teachers open up first, it makes a good environment for the classroom and for students to feel comfortable and welcome,” Margo Todd, 10, said.

One nerve racking element to school for students is not having familiar faces or friends in their classes. 

“I think it’s very important for teachers to get to know students because it helps them learn better, and if you don’t have friends in the class, you still feel comfortable when you can talk to the teacher,” Rylan Laws, 9, said.

Creating these bonds can be difficult, and not everyone is made to get along with the people around them. School can be a complicated place to make relationships for teenagers and adults. It is hard to build relationships that are healthy for everyone. 

“It’s extremely hard, and that’s where teaching in general is very difficult for everybody that becomes a teacher. I learned very quickly that you’re never just teaching, and if you are a teacher that doesn’t get as emotionally invested, it’s probably mentally healthier,”  Stephanie Hojnacki, math teacher, said. “So I can’t even hate that about people I work with or people I observe. I think everybody has to find their balance.” 

Students can be intimidated or reserved at first, but as time goes on, the class tends to get more comfortable.

“I never try to ask intrusive questions or anything, but I think it just comes as the semester goes on too. If I’m real, then they will just start opening up or asking silly questions,” Corn said.

Everyone has their own viewpoint on the teachers they are surrounded by, but with an understanding teacher, positive relationships can still be made.

“I am upfront and honest with them, and I think that it helps them feel more comfortable with being upfront and honest with me. Some prefer that I leave them alone, and I think the fact that I respect that means that when they do need me, they are more comfortable to come talk to me so I try to respect each kid where they’re at,” Hojnacki said. 

Teachers can be role models who are looked up to for support and confidence. Despite the struggles that might come with it, students can learn more skills that are life long and helpful toward their future.

“Whenever you create a close relationship with your teachers, you’re able to go to them for help wherever you need it for work, personal life, sports, or activities,” Todd said. “Creating relationships with people that are older than you is beneficial because they have a lot of great advice and they have been through a lot of stuff that we have been through so it’s easy for them to relate and give us advice.”