We all have conflicts with other people from time to time — they are a normal, but upsetting, part of relationships. It can be particularly distressing to have conflicts with teachers. Finding a way to resolve conflicts at school can be challenging and you may need to talk things out with a neutral third party. Try talking to a trusted adult, and remember Kids Help Phone is here 24-hours a day, 7 days a week. Try calling us at 1-800-668-6868.

You and your teacher may have conflicts about:

• grades
• absences
• disrespect
• misbehaviour in class
• personality differences

Whatever the reason, conflict with a teacher can be frustrating and upsetting. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Try to avoid immediate emotional responses. Ask your teacher for some time to calm down before talking.
• Your teacher has the right to ask you to leave class. If this happens, try to talk to your teacher when you have both calmed down.
• Try to define the reasons for the conflict as clearly as possible.
• Make sure both you and your teacher get a chance to talk and listen.
• Try to find a win-win solution — make compromises in order to find a solution that satisfies you both.
• If you can't reach a resolution on your own, ask a third party (e.g. a principal or guidance counsellor) to mediate.

Last reviewed: January 2011