Resolutions Related to Higher Education

I-53. Personal Relationships in Higher Education

The National Education Association recognizes that in institutions of higher education adult students and education employees may establish personal relationships. However, such relationships should be voluntary and not be used to coerce or influence others for personal advantage. Thus, the Association believes that sexual relationships between a faculty member and a student currently enrolled in the faculty member's course, or under the supervision or direction of any higher education employee, are unprofessional. The Association encourages its affiliates in institutions of higher education to seek the establishment of strong policies declaring such relationships unprofessional. (1989, 1998)

NOTE: Figures in parentheses represent the years when the resolution was first adopted and last amended or reviewed.