Getting Along With Difficult Teacher Is Valuable Lesson

Recently, a young teacher at my son's middle school humiliated a student in front of the class. My son, who is quite sensitive, called to tell me about this when I was away from home.
I criticized that teacher because I don't want my son to believe for one minute that a teacher has the authority to do this. I also called the principal to register my anger. I have made it clear to my son that teachers, like everyone else, must be worthy of respect and any behavior that is unacceptable from him is more unacceptable from those who teach him.
I have also criticized textbooks that contain factual and/or grammatical errors. And I have criticized his school for eliminating fine-arts programs in favor of devoting more resources to athletics. I believe that questioning and criticism are an integral part of education. - Critical Observer
Answer: No teacher should humiliate a child in front of his or her classmates. This is not acceptable. It is also not very wise behavior, as it upsets the other students who are likely to believe that they could be subject to similar humiliation.
Teachers are never perfect. Don't expect them to be. And remember, a CONSTANT diet of parental criticism of teachers, even if you think it is justified, is likely to cause children to have a negative attitude toward their teachers. This certainly doesn't facilitate learning. If parents are truly upset by the attitude and actions of a teacher, it is far better to express those concerns to the teacher and/or principal. The same holds true for excessive criticism of textbooks and curriculum.
We urge you to encourage your child to be respectful toward his teachers. Your message should be: "Respect your teachers. It is not ever acceptable for you to be disrespectful of them." And go one step further and encourage your child to learn how to get along with difficult teachers, as he will have to get along with so many people in his life who may seem to be unfair or even mean. This is a valuable learning experience.