Dear Aunty Jen,

Dear Aunty Jennifer,
I complained about the way my SAT Prep teacher grades our homework and tests. Somehow, the teacher found out it was me who complained and she treats me very coolly and angrily. What can I do to get in her good graces again—without “sucking up to her” or being a “brown-noser”?


--Sad in Selimiye

Dear Sad in Selimiye,
I understand your predicament. It is obvious that you care about what your teachers think about you, which is a good thing. The first thing you should do is go and apologize for saying something rude behind your teacher's back. You should also tell the teacher that you will respect them and their rules even if you do not neccesarily like them. You do not have to "suck up" to her, you just have to be honest with her and tell her how you feel in a civil manner. You could also behave in class and be on your best behavior, even if you do not agree with the teacher. Remember, your teacher is in control of you while you are in their class, so be polite and respect her.