Reports of harassment and undue pressure by parents and students toward teachers have significantly increased over the past year, particularly in secondary schools. Teachers face mounting challenges, including criticism of their grading decisions and ridicule on social media, prompting growing concern within the educational community.
Rising Tensions in Secondary Education
The Teachers’ Ombudsman of ANPE, an independent public education union, reports that most complaints from educators stem from conflicts in secondary education. Approximately 75% of grievances come from this stage, while 25% originate in primary education, where issues tend to be less severe but often foreshadow future challenges in high schools.
In addition to formal complaints, teachers frequently endure daily disrespect in classrooms—ranging from dismissive attitudes to outright disobedience. Counselors also highlight that social media misuse, such as creating offensive memes targeting teachers, exacerbates these issues.
Grading: A Flashpoint for Conflict
One of the most contentious areas is grading. Teachers report increasing pressure from parents who question their assessments and even their professional competence. Eduardo Navarro, ANPE Teachers’ Advocate in the Valencian Community, explains that some families dispute the way their children are evaluated, leading to heated confrontations.
Javier García Martínez, a counselor from Alicante, notes that certain parents blindly support their children, dismissing evidence presented by teachers and justifying poor performance with claims of effort or external preparation, despite clear evidence to the contrary. While such families are in the minority, their disruptive behaviour drains time and energy, leaving teachers feeling demoralized.
Social Media Harassment
Teachers in secondary schools also face challenges related to students’ misuse of mobile phones. Instances of students taking photos of teachers, creating offensive memes, and sharing harmful content online are particularly troubling. ANPE stresses that while these incidents are not universal, they are a leading cause of conflict between students and teachers.
Schools have implemented measures to address these issues, including involving law enforcement to remove harmful content. The recent ban on smartphone use during school hours in the Valencian Community is beginning to show promising results in reducing such conflicts.
Erosion of Teacher-Student Relationships
Educators and advisors acknowledge a deeper issue: the weakening bond between teachers and students. Eugenio Toledo, a counselor, describes this breakdown as a “vital emergency,” exacerbated by an outdated educational system struggling to engage a tech-savvy generation. He warns that while mobile phones and other technologies are often blamed, they are merely symptoms of broader systemic challenges.
Toledo also highlights the intergenerational divide, where the rapid evolution of technology has outpaced the education system’s ability to adapt, creating tension among students, families, and educators.
Support and Solutions
ANPE has ramped up its support services, providing legal assistance, counseling, and guidance to affected teachers. The union reports an increase in teachers taking temporary leave due to these pressures, with 31.3% citing harassment or conflict as the cause.
In primary schools, principals report similar trends, with children exhibiting tantrums and a low tolerance for frustration. Parents in this stage also sometimes undermine teachers by openly questioning their authority, further complicating classroom management.
The Path Forward
Educators emphasize the need for systemic change, including updating teaching methods, strengthening the teacher-student bond, and addressing the misuse of technology in schools. While tools like social media and instant messaging can enhance communication, they must be managed carefully to prevent conflict.
As teachers navigate these growing challenges, support from unions, parents, and policymakers will be essential to fostering a respectful and productive learning environment for all.
