Is it normal for students from last year not talking to you this year?

[Anonymous]

Some kids I know they change when they get older and want to be part of a click. Or prefer other teachers or have new favorites which happened. One student was one of my favorite students now doesn’t talk to me much. Even if I say hi and interact, it’s one answer words or his smile goes away when he sees me. Me smiles and hugs his new “favorite” teacher. I feel betrayed lol.
Some kids when I had since they were little, they prefer other teachers than me which is fine and say hi to them but they won’t do it with me.
Is it my voice? Is it because I’m a hard ass, my face expressions or my size that intimidates them? I’m tall (6’2) , plus size 22/24. I’m black. I know I’m not that pretty.
One little girls said a dry “Hi” when I said good morning. She used to ask for hugs but not anymore. She only hugs my two coworkers (4’10 and 5’7, white ladies. It seems like the kids like the good looking or fun teachers. Kids don’t listen to be when I. Stand firm. I was told I’m too nice and I should have lates down the law from day one.

Updates

5 mo

I’m an assistant teacher

Updates

5 mo

And I’m autistic

[HollyK21]

I have a friend who’s been a teacher assistant for a little over 15 years now, and from time to time she struggles with the same thing. It can be hard not getting attached, but your best bet is to try hard not to. I’d also say try not to take the changes personally, because at the end of the day these aren’t your friends. I know that there’s times where a teacher and student really connect and they keep in touch, but I think that’s up to the student and you’ve got to respect if they don’t wanna go that route. You also shouldn’t be adding your looks or physical features into the equation because your goal isn’t to be visually appealing to
These students. Like you shouldn’t be worried about looking as good as you think Miss. Penny does because more kids approach her, that is such a trivial concern.

[Anonymous]

Yes it is.

[Asker]

How come? I’m not trying to be friends with them. It kind of hurts that they ignore you and talk to the other teachers. Some little girl gave me a dirty look when I asked her how was her day. She was in a hurry to get away from me.