Instructor Student Relationship

As a Martial Arts Instructor, you are helping students develop skills in physical arts while also teaching them life-transforming values. Students develop strong feelings towards their teachers and instructors, yet they don't know how to express their feelings in a professional manner. It is normal for a child to want to hug you. Sometimes, you can't stop it. It is important that you express that instead of hugging, bowing is acceptable.

Be professional at all times.

Be professional in how you interact with students at all times. It is imperative that you understand your position as Instructor (Teacher) and NEVER seek advantage of their emotions. Always maintain a mutual respect between you as Instructor and them as Student. We express mutual respect in traditional Taekwondo by bowing.

3 guidelines to maintain professionalism.

• Be friendly, but not a friend. Developing a strong relationship with a student can compromise the Teacher/Student relationship. It is never appropriate for Instructors and Students to be texting each other or hanging out.
• Be personable, but not personal. Small talk is fine, such as how was your day or how was school. Never talk anything about your personal life with students, except to demonstrate "Hunt the Good Stuff" as part of Resilience Training.
• Never use your position for personal gain. It's inappropriate to use the student's admiration of you to get a date.

As Martial Arts Instructors, we have the privilege to be leaders, role models, teachers, mentors in our dojang and community. With this privilege comes great responsibility to always maintain integrity and continually earn the respect we are given. Being in any position of leadership can be lonely, but keep in mind the positive ways you are helping your students to improve their lives and communities.

Your professionalism will help the world be a better place!