One new notification. One new friend request. One new problem? 

The debate in Missouri is still stirring over whether or not students and teachers should be able to be “friends” on Facebook. A new rule prohibits students and teachers connecting by Facebook.

“I think it’s fine because it gives teachers an opportunity to be there if a student is struggling outside of school,” said senior Sam Teter.

Facebook allows users to get insight on what someone is doing, but it’s for this reason that some people think otherwise. One new teacher has found a way to even out what she wants her students to see and what she does not.

“I have a facebook account that my students can see, and a different account for my personal friends,” said graphics design teacher Chantelle Rateliff.

The issue arose when a student came forth with a story about a teacher who molested her years back. The Amy Hestir Act, currently being debated in Missouri, gives victims 30 years after they turn 18 to press charges.

“It’s okay until inappropriate situations occur,” said junior Zac DeShazo.

Many authority figures in our community are now discussing whether or not they will enforce the section of the Amy Hestir Act that states no current or former student under 18 should be able to communicate with teachers online.

Some students develop better relationships with their teachers over the years with the help of online sources. Facebook also gives students one more way to keep in contact with teachers. These stronger bonds do affect the learning environment.

“The better the relationship between a student and a teacher, the more respect they have for each other, and the better the learning environment,” said chemistry teacher Lyndsey Reynolds.