In the world of remote schooling, a new conflict has emerged. It’s not about homework, grades, or even screen time. It’s about a title. A mother finds herself in a peculiar predicament with her son’s second-grade teacher over the use of the title ‘Dr.’ . Let’s dive into this intriguing tale of respect, confusion, and a dash of ego.
The Introduction of Dr. Sarah Smith

The Doctor’s Preferred Titles

The First Parent-Teacher Meeting

The First Correction

The Confusion Begins

The Mixed Messages

The Second Parent-Teacher Meeting

The Second Correction

The Confrontation

The Teacher’s Preference

The Mother’s Dilemma

The Reflection

The Resolution

The Update

The Final Thoughts

The Title Tangle: A Lesson in Respect and Ego
In a world where remote learning is the new norm, a mother finds herself in a surprising conflict with her son’s second-grade teacher. The bone of contention? The use of the title ‘Dr.’ . The teacher, Dr. Sarah Smith, prefers to be called ‘Dr. Smith’ by parents, but ‘Ms. Sarah’ by students. This inconsistency has left the mother feeling confused and questioning the teacher’s motives. Is it a power trip or a matter of respect? After two awkward parent-teacher meetings, the mother finally confronts the teacher, only to be told that the teacher prefers ‘Dr. Smith’ when dealing with parents. The mother is left questioning cultural norms, respect, and the importance of a title. So, what’s your take on this? Let’s see what the internet thinks of this situation…
“YTA. People work hard to get their doctorate. That is her title. Of course she knows that 2nd graders would have trouble with that. But you yourself , as an adult, should know how to use proper titles with people”

“YTA. Call her by her earned title. She’s qualified. “

“YTA. It’s not difficult to show basic respect. “
![Image credit: [deleted] | [deleted]](https://static.diply.com/744f242a-8dbe-46e8-93bc-605da91e2ebb.png)
YTA. Teacher earned her title. Respect her hard work.

“YTA – Respect her title, it’s not rocket science! “
![Image credit: [deleted] | [deleted]](https://static.diply.com/c9757e36-9d5c-4a93-a537-308c331758f8.png)
YTA: No confusion. You’re choosing to be rude.
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“Women with PhDs are often belittled and called by their first names, or Ms. Last Name… You are NTA for being confused, but Dr. Smith has the right to be addressed by her professional title. She literally earned it. “
![Image credit: [deleted] | [deleted]](https://static.diply.com/2d7d332e-7dcf-47d7-b5bf-d662e925c340.png)
“YTA. Teachers go by their first name and miss to lessen the power dynamic with kids. They want to be more casual in order to get the students comfortable, etc etc. that’s also why you see many k-3 teachers refer to their students by ‘friend.’ You’re not a student. You’re an adult. Her title is Dr. Smith, so that’s what you should address her as. It’s just respect dude.”

“YTA. She worked hard for her doctorate. Have some respect. “

YTA. Petty reason to be upset. Just call her Dr. Smith
![Image credit: [deleted] | [deleted]](https://static.diply.com/65361e8a-e6d8-4262-869a-7617c82944e6.png)
“YTA. Stop the power struggle and respect her professional title.”

“YTA. Parents called her Dr. Lastname, not Miss/Mr. Firstname. “

Adult with PhD asks to be called doctor, sparks debate. NTA.

NTA. PhD holder defends title, sparking cultural debate

Calling teachers by first name is more respectful and less obnoxious.

NTA. PhDs agree: Being a snob about titles is unnecessary.

NTA comment: Addressing teacher as ‘doctor’ creates unnecessary power distance.
Reply: Lack of respect for teachers in public schools.
Mom vs. Teacher: Who deserves the Doctorate Title?

The etiquette of addressing someone with a doctorate explained!

NTA: Teacher’s power trip over doctorate title sparks controversy.
![Image credit: [deleted] | [deleted]](https://static.diply.com/e649f337-e9c3-4711-909d-e050c1afb188.png)
Confused adult? YTA! ♂️

Addressing a teacher’s title: YTA or NAH?

YTA for undermining a teacher’s earned doctorate title.
