✍︎ Glezel Jane F. Ababa
Does the hard work and effort of students matter when there is unequal treatment from teachers? Favoritism undermines the notion that “hard work leads to success,” because students who are teachers’ favorites seem to receive opportunities and recognition more easily. Meanwhile, those who are not favored endure sleepless nights and stressful weeks, only to receive low grades.
This kills motivation, as students begin to feel that their efforts are futile and undervalued due to bias. It feels like no matter how much they strive, they will always be overlooked. This can lead to frustration, a loss of interest, and a sense of hopelessness. Students might start thinking, “Why bother trying?” They begin to question their self-worth, wondering whether their abilities are being judged fairly or simply through the lens of teacher bias.
Learners want their efforts to be acknowledged and their struggles to be understood. They want their hard work to pay off, not to be overshadowed by teachers’ preferences. When teachers treat students unfairly, they feel unheard and unseen, and it becomes difficult to keep pushing forward when the playing field is uneven.
When will our efforts speak for themselves?
Fairness in education should not be limited to grades, but should also recognize the value of students’ hard work. Because when dedication is acknowledged over mere grades, that is true equity.
