
Teacher/Student Relationship
The teacher-student relationship is founded on a deep trust and respect that is the mutual responsibility of both parties to honor. However, the authority of the teacher carries with it an increased responsibility to avoid situations and actions that could result in harm to the student, the community or the teacher him or herself. We recognize that harm may result if a teacher and student become sexually or inappropriately emotionally involved, or if a teacher violates trust, or uses power or position for personal ends.
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The responsibility for maintaining appropriate and clear boundaries always rests with the teacher. Zen West teacher(s) should respect and protect the personal autonomy of all students, and refrain from any sexual involvement with students. Should a teacher feel unable to uphold this standard, he/she will seek guidance and counsel from his/her teacher, a senior teacher in their lineage and/or a senior teacher from the broader community. It is recommended that the student involved also seek guidance and support, and not maintain secrecy around his/her concerns because of a sense of obligation to the teacher, or because the exchanges that caused concern occurred in private settings where interactions are usually held confidentially.