It can be hard for a teacher to watch a student going through family problems at home. The level of involvement the teacher takes in the personal lives of students can be an ethical dilemma. Depending on the situation, some students would prefer to deal with it on their own; others may crave intervention. If a teacher intervenes inappropriately, this can make the situation worse for the student. Abuse in the home should always be taken seriously.
Students who are really trying to learn, but simply do not keep up with their peers, can be heartbreaking for teachers. These types of students may work the hardest, but perform poorly. Teachers can face a dilemma advancing such students, especially if they are on the border for passing. The student may find the next level of the subject even more challenging. However, failing a student who is nearly there may also arrest the enthusiasm the student shows. Caution must be exercised, and decisions must be made on a case-by-case basis.
Although it is not common, teachers can be faced with blackmail and bribery. Students may try to bribe teachers for a higher grade with money, event tickets or other items. It may not be difficult for a teacher to dismiss such advances by turning them in to the principal. Blackmail is much harder for teachers. Students who demand, for example, a higher grade could say they will falsely accuse the teacher of abuse or inappropriate conduct if their demands are not met. Teachers who have not done anything wrong still may have to face accusation claims if they do not comply. The best thing for the teacher to do is to immediately bring the matter to the principal and not negotiate with the student.
Unfortunately, quotas do exist in the educational system. Teachers are required to have certain averages, passing student quotas and test scores. In some classrooms, this is simply not possible. For example, in a lower socioeconomic school, students who are passed in order to fill quotas may not be able to meet standards. Teachers who try to do things honestly may look like poor teachers when they fail, while other teachers may simply fudge the grades or "teach to the test."