No, I agree with you.
It's the anti-humble head bow.
And I would NEVER give a mere head raise to a PRIEST.
Seriously, people.
Decorum. Look it up.
As a priest and as a teacher, I think you deserved a little better than that type of greeting.
I agree
Since you were face to face, the student could've said hello. However, in this area you frequently see the head raise paired with the "country wave*" when driving. Was this student a farm kid? That may make a difference. . .
Beth
*the country wave is a raised index finger on the hand which rests atop the steering wheel
Thank you, all. Knowing this particular student I know that he meant no disrespect. He did at least acknowledge me with a head raise, which is more than happens with others; and it was even before the beginning of school.
I'm afraid, Ma, that decorum and respect are all but gone in today's society.
We do still see it, though, as Beth kindly points out, in the "country wave", and in the Hawaiian wave after cutting someone off on the highway 
You know, Father, I think you're right. The only time I'll use the "head raise" is when my hands are full and it would be inappropriate or inadvisable to yell out a greeting. I do wonder though if society is ready for the head bow - when I do bow my head most people just return it with a quizzical look. Sometimes I think they're wondering if I'm trying to play a part in a medieval play or something. *sigh* Our society still has so much to learn...
Is that why people just look at me a lot, Peter? I've always bowed my head toward people - just a nod, really - but it's only rarely ever returned. You could be on to something.
Perhaps I really was born a millenium too late and an ocean away. Of course, I wouldn't have survived birth, so maybe it's best I'm here now.
I have to agree with you that a simple nod is not my preferred greeting by someone who knows me. I also expect that a simple hello is the least that someone, especially someone who is younger than I, who knows me should offer. I certainly offer at least that greeting to someone older than me.
Of course, if a younger person that I know does not offer a greeting, I speak up and loudly wish them a "good morning/afternoon" in hopes that they will get the hint. Most of the children in my neighborhood are quick to say hello, but several don't and after a year or so of not returning my greeting (a trait that their parents share I must add), I simply walk past them without acknowleding them. It is quite obvious that they learn from their parents and will not be swayed by my "instruction."
You're quite right there, Ellen.
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