Students, especially high school and college students are sometimes rude to their teachers and professors and behave badly in class. When teacher correct the behavior of a student, often the student responds in a disrespectful way out of pride.
They don’t want to be corrected, especially in front of their peers. However, most teachers work hard for the benefit of their students, and if one misbehaves, it can be harmful for the whole class. An outburst in class may save the student’s pride, but it could damage their relationship with the teacher and other teachers as their reputation becomes known.
Difficult To Face A Teacher To Apologize?
When this happens, the student should apologize to the teacher. It may be difficult to face a teacher to apologize for disrespectful behavior, but the same results can be gained by writing an apology letter. In the letter, the student should mention the incident and apologize for their actions. This type of letter should be formal. The teacher may show it to the principal and other teachers, and a copy may be put in the student’s file.
The letter should be addressed to the teacher’s correct name and not to a familiar or friendly name the student has called the teacher in class. If the student has difficulty putting their feelings of apology into words, they can ask another teacher for help. There may be a particular form that is recommended. They will know the best way for the student to express regret, so that the teacher forgives.
The student needs to feel sincere contrition when they write the letter. The tone of the letter should be genuine. If the student says that he or she is forced to write the letter, it will not be well received. If the letter is insincere, the teacher will know immediately.
It is also not a good idea for the student to blame the teacher for the student’s behavior or imply that it is the teacher’s fault. The aim of this letter is for the student to be accepted as a normal student and not as a troublesome person.
Proof Read The Letter
The letter should clearly state that the student sincerely apologizes or deeply regrets their action. This will tell the teacher that the student is taking responsibility for his or her action. It’s a good idea to have the completed letter proof read by another teacher or someone who knows correct grammar and spelling. This will show the teacher that the student made an effort to do it right.
Students shouldn’t feel that an apology letter is the answer for bad behavior, thereby giving them an excuse to behave disrespectfully in class and then write an apology letter. This type of letter only works once or possibly twice. More than that and the teacher and school may decide to take other action about a disruptive student. If the student promises in the letter that the behavior won’t happen again, they should stick to it.
Formal Style Letter
Here is a sample apology letter to a teacher. It should be written in a formal style because this will enhance the seriousness of the letter. It can be hand delivered, if that is acceptable to the student, put on the teacher’s desk when the teacher is not there, or it can be mailed by certified mail, so the student is certain that the teacher actually received it.
The teacher should answer the letter. If there is no response from the teacher in about a week, the student can ask the teacher if he or she read the letter and has any comments. Sometimes, if there is no comment, the teacher is not satisfied with the apology. In this case, the student may need to talk to the teacher about the situation.
Sample Apology Letter to a Teacher
Name of Student
Address of Student
City, State, Zip Code
DATE
Name of Teacher
Name of School
Address of School
City, State, Zip Code
Dear Name of Teacher,
This letter is to formally apologize to you for my behavior in class on DATE. You corrected me for gossiping with a friend during one of your lectures, and I responded in a rude way. I have given it a lot of thought and realize that what I said was out of place and disrespectful to you, my classmates and the school. It was also disrespectful to myself, and I know I can do better.
I see your generosity and enthusiasm while teaching World History and appreciate your efforts to make your class interesting. The understanding of world events that I got from you has opened my eyes to many things.
I have learned from this experience and promise to maintain appropriate behavior in the future. I hope our relationship can be undamaged because of my behavior, and I can continue to learn under your guidance.
Sincerely,
Student’s Signature