27 Aug Building Bridges: The Importance of Developing Close Relationships with High School Teachers

High school is a transformative period in a student’s life. Still, amid the whirlwind of experiences and the pressure to get “good” grades, students often overlook a valuable resource that can significantly enhance their educational journey: their high school teachers. Cultivating close relationships with teachers may seem like an additional task to a teenager, but it’s an investment that can yield immense benefits.

So how can students foster meaningful connections with their high school teachers, and why does nurturing these relationships matter? 

Genuine Connections Fuel Academic Growth 

Developing close relationships with high school teachers helps create an environment conducive to academic growth. When students establish a genuine connection with their teachers, they feel comfortable seeking guidance and clarification; they are more inclined to ask questions, participate in class discussions, and actively engage with the subject matter. This increased involvement fosters critical thinking, nurtures intellectual curiosity, and sparks a love for learning that can extend beyond the classroom. 

Mentorship and Guidance 

Close relationships with teachers offer students invaluable mentorship and guidance. Teachers can provide advice on career choices, share personal anecdotes, and help students navigate challenges both in and outside school. Teachers can also advocate for their students, offering support in various aspects of their lives. From writing recommendation letters for college applications to providing emotional guidance during difficult times, teachers who know their students well can be reliable support sources. 

Personal Development and Self-Confidence 

Close relationships with teachers contribute significantly to students’ personal development and self-confidence. When teachers take a genuine interest in their students’ lives, passions, and aspirations, it fosters a sense of belonging and validates their individuality. Students feel seen, heard, and valued, which boosts their self-esteem and overall well-being. In addition, strong relationships with teachers provide a safe space for students to express themselves, share their thoughts, and take intellectual risks. Through meaningful interactions, students develop communication skills, learn to articulate their ideas and build the confidence to express their opinions. These essential skills transcend the classroom and prepare students for future endeavors in higher education, careers, and personal relationships.

What Parents Can Do

Developing close relationships with high school teachers is an investment that reaps numerous rewards. By actively engaging with their teachers, students open doors to a world of opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom. But building these relationships requires effort—and here is where parents can help! By encouraging their children to approach their teachers with respect, curiosity, and an eagerness to learn, parents can help them develop  lifelong connections with their teachers that will benefit students long after leaving high school.