Teacher needs schooling in ‘personal space’

Dear Harriette: My teacher is a little too “touchy-feely” for my taste. He has been at school forever, and everybody knows him. The problem is, I feel uncomfortable in close proximity to him because when he tries to be nice, it often just comes out a bit creepy. I don’t want to get him in trouble because I know he means no harm. But I also don’t feel comfortable talking to him about it. What should I do? — Sasha, Queens, N.Y.

Dear Sasha: Trust your instincts. Chances are your teacher either doesn’t have an appropriate sense of personal space or is actually grappling with intimacy issues. No matter what, you should not have to suffer. If you aren’t ready to tell a guidance counselor, drum up the courage to address your teacher. Write a letter expressing your discomfort (keep a copy) and ask him to give you some space.