Meridith Alspektor

I think sometimes there is a fine line between friendship between a student and educator, and just caring. You want to make it comfortable enough for a student to reach out to you and approach you with a problem that may be effecting their attendance and studies. As the educator you want to show concern and caring, and also to perhaps follow up on a personal level. Can this be construed as friendship or do you think it's all in the approach?

I am curious how others address the cellphone in their lap or near by "in case of emergencies", and also there need to go to the restroom during an exam.