He always seems to know where we are and what we’re doing. It’s creepy and I’m over it.
What can I do?
—Feeling Watched
Dear F.W.,
Yikes. That does sound creepy. It’s one thing to have security cameras for safety reasons, but it’s another thing entirely for someone to be spying on staff and students. First, I would suggest bringing this up with a trusted colleague or your union representative to get their perspective and advice. If you feel comfortable, try talking directly to the AP in question. Let them know that you feel uncomfortable with the level of surveillance and ask them to respect your privacy and boundaries. If that doesn’t work, you may need to escalate the issue to your principal or HR department. It’s important to feel safe and respected in your workplace, so don’t hesitate to take action if you feel that your privacy is being violated.
Good luck, and I hope this situation resolves quickly for you!
Do you have a burning question? Email us at askweareteachers@weareteachers.com.
As a teacher, it can be frustrating to deal with micromanagement from administrators. One particular Assistant Principal has taken it to a new level, using surveillance cameras to monitor teachers’ every move. He has used this surveillance to confront a pregnant teacher about her bathroom breaks, question the length of hallway conversations between teachers, and monitor teachers who arrive late or leave early, even by just a minute or two.
Instead of addressing these issues in a professional manner, the Assistant Principal resorts to a strange interrogation tactic. He asks teachers how long they were away from their classrooms, only to reveal surveillance footage as “proof” of their actions. This approach is not only invasive but also creates a sense of shame and embarrassment among teachers.
While it may be tempting to confront the Assistant Principal about his micromanagement style, many teachers may feel hesitant to do so. However, it is important to address the issue and communicate concerns about the lack of trust and respect shown towards teachers. This level of surveillance creates a toxic work environment and undermines the professionalism and autonomy of teachers.
In conclusion, micromanagement in the form of surveillance cameras is not an effective or respectful way to manage teachers. It is important for administrators to trust their staff, communicate openly, and address issues in a constructive manner. By fostering a culture of respect and collaboration, schools can create a positive and supportive environment for both teachers and students.
