Job Discussion Forums

[Kurochan]

Hi --

I have never written on this board before, but I need some help.

I'm teaching in China, and one of the teachers at my school died unexpectedly. The man's wife is from Mexico.

She is devastated and has returned home. The students are in shock. If the students say they would like to send some sort of message to his parents or his wife, I'd provide guidance on what is appropriate and customary.

However, I don't know if sending this sort of letter is acceptable in Mexican culture. I know the students would like to tell his wife how special he was to them, but I don't want to do anything that will cause her more pain. If these letters are sent in Mexico, are there any conventions? Is there anything that should be avoided?

(The students are college-aged, have a good command of English, and have known the professor for several years. )

Any advice? It may be that his wife and family ask for privacy and not to be contacted, but if not and students want to communicate with them I don't know how to handle it.

Thanks for any insights!

K.

[Samantha]

How sad for everyone. Mexican culture treats (and accepts) death differently. I am sure his family would appreciate receiving the letters expressing how the students felt about their teacher, and his impact on them. The letters will be cherished and likely placed amongst his favorite things. What a nice gesture on your part, not only for the teacher's family, but for the students. It will provide a bit of closure for them.

[MotherF]

What Sam said.
I'm sure she would be touched to know that they thought highly of him.

Did the man previously work in Mexico? I know a couple of guys with Mexican wives who moved on to Asia...