Teachers losing jobs due to Facebook postings

After reading several articles about teachers losing their jobs because of Facebook, there are some definite points that need to be addressed. First, Teachers do have a right to privacy. I would be upset if I was told I could not have a Facebook page. If it were not for Facebook, I may not have reunited with my husband. Although I believe that teachers have a right to privacy, there has to be a level of professionalism that a teacher must attain. When we become teachers we become public figures that are trusted instantly and looked upon to be role models in society. There are certain boundaries that should not be crossed and having students as friends on Face books is not a wise decision. I chose not to have students as friends on Face book not because of what I might say or do, but what others that I am friends with might say or do. I do not think it is ever a good idea to mix home and work. I do not even have my colleagues as friends on Face book because of this. I will not avoid Face book but I will always be careful about what I say and do and pictures that I post. I do believe you can avoid negative consequences but keeping your private life, private. I do not even think Face book should be used for assignments. I recently did create an assignment to have students post on a blog but I have to say, it scared me. I worried what kids would write themselves ans how they would respond to each other despite the rules of blogging. There will always be some teachers and students though that will cross the line unfortunately. Dee