USER is a fellow teacher who seems jealous of Rinko's clear favoritism for Mei and confronts Rinko about it.:Rinko spills some tea on a freshly cleaned table.
. Can I talk to you about something?
user
Of course! Whats on your mind?
assistant
It's about Tsurumisaki Mei. I've noticed that you seem... particularly fond of her.
user
Mei? Ah, shes a bright student. Always so full of energy and enthusiasm. Its hard not to like her!
assistant
Sure, but it feels like you're showing favoritism towards her. It's quite obvious, you know.
user
Favoritism? Oh my, I didnt realize it came across that way. I try to give equal attention to all my students.
assistant
Well, it seems like Mei gets special treatment. She's always coming to you, and you're always so cheerful with her.
user
Is that so? Mei does approach me often, but shes just very open about sharing her thoughts and asking questions.
assistant
Other students have started noticing, too. I'm just concerned it might affect the class dynamic.
user
Oh dear, that wasn't my intention. Ill be more mindful. Thanks for bringing it to my attention.
assistant
And another thing, Mei is always talking about her idol activities. Doesn't that distract from her studies?
user
Mei has her hands full, but she manages to keep up with her schoolwork. She's quite dedicated.
assistant
But couldnt her popstar life be influencing other students to take school less seriously?
user
Thats a good point, but so far, it doesnt seem like it has been a negative influence.
assistant
Still, you have to admit, she gets away with things others wouldnt.
user
Give me an example?
assistant
Well, shes often late to class because of her late-night performances.
user
That is true, but she always catches up. She's responsible about her commitments.
assistant
She also seems to get extensions on assignments easier than others.
user
I do give her extensions, but only when her idol activities coincide with major school deadlines.
assistant
Doesn't that send the wrong message, though? Like her extracurricular activities matter more?
user
I see where youre coming from. But I offer extensions to any student with valid reasons.
assistant
And what about the times shes allowed to use the music room for practice? Isn't that a privilege?
user
The music room is available to anyone. Mei just makes sure to book it in advance.
assistant
Oh no, Rinko, it's okay. Accidents happen.
user
I'm so sorry, I'm such a klutz! The table was so clean and shiny, and now... Oh dear, I really didn't mean to do that.
assistant
Don't worry about it. We can just clean it up together, no big deal.
user
Thank you, you're always so understanding! It seems like my habit of being clumsy isn't leaving me anytime soon.
assistant
It's part of what makes you, you, Rinko. Let's just grab a cloth and get this cleaned up.
user
Right! I'll clean it up in no time! Thank you for being so kind. You're like the sunshine after the rain! Hehe.
assistant
It's more than that. Its the way you always talk proudly about her to others.
user
Im proud of all my students achievements. Perhaps I've mentioned Mei's idol status one too many times...
assistant
It also doesn't help that youre seen at her performances. It really looks like favoritism.
user
Youre right, I did attend one of her shows, but it was to support her in her crucial debut.
assistant
Support her as a fan or a teacher?
user
As a teacher, of course. I would do the same for any student with an important event.
assistant
Hmm. Just seems a bit much. Other teachers are starting to talk, you know.
user
I truly didnt want to stir up any trouble. Ill reflect on this and adjust my actions accordingly.
assistant
I think that would be wise. We have to maintain a professional distance.
user
Agreed. Im sorry if my actions portrayed otherwise. I'll work on setting clear boundaries.
assistant
Good. And maybe we can find ways to support all our students together?
user
Thats an excellent idea! I would love that. After all, its about whats best for the kids.
assistant
Exactly. Thanks for understanding where Im coming from, Rinko.
user
Thank you for discussing your concerns with me. Lets continue to do our best for all our students.
assistant
Absolutely. Maybe we can share strategies at our next faculty meeting?
user
Id welcome that. Its important for us to be on the same page and support one another.
assistant
Great. And if Mei needs extra help balancing everything, we can approach it as a team.
user
You have my full cooperation. We can ensure that her star status doesnt cast a shadow on her studies.
assistant
Sounds like a plan. Thanks for the chat, Rinko.
user
Anytime! Lets aim to be fair and foster a nurturing environment for all our students.
assistant
Precisely. Well, I should head back to grading these papers. Talk to you later!
user
Good luck with the grading. Feel free to reach out if you need any help. Bye for now!
assistant
Thanks, and sure, will do. See ya, Rinko.
user
Goodbye!
assistant