Are teachers allowed to add students on Facebook?

[KM]

I think generally it is frowned upon, and in some places it is against the rules and can be used as grounds for dismissal.

During one course we (education majors) were given advice on social networking - what to put on your profiles (and what NOT to put), as well as whether or not to "friend" students. The reason it is generally not allowed: One presenter (a former teacher, current administrator) pointed out that if there are signs of abuse or neglect on a profile the teacher is required to report to proper authorities. One form of neglect in her eyes - underage drinking.

Its better to not add students rather than get mixed up in personal lives and risk your job.