Parent Power!
Helping You Make Sense of Schooling Today

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Published by
The Center for Education Reform
Jeanne Allen, President

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Are You Afraid to Talk to Your Child's Teacher or Principal?

Talking to a child's teacher or principal can be an uncomfortable, even intimidating experience for any parent, but for those who have less than fond memories of their own schooldays it is especially difficult to communicate with their child's school. When a problem occurs in the classroom, many of these parents question their instincts and brush concerns aside. Others assume that because teachers and other school leaders are experts they must know what is best for the child. In more extreme cases parents fear a confrontation will produce ill will and that ill will might be communicated to their child. In short, they fear retaliation. Should you swallow your tongue to avoid the possibility of bad feelings between you and your child's teacher or principal?
          No! Studies show that teachers want parents to be more involved in their children's education. Parents who value and support education tend to have children who value education and do well in school. But your support cannot be superficial. If your child dislikes school, a particular subject or her teacher, you owe it to her to get to the root of the problem. Sometimes the matter can be cleared up easily with a parent-student-teacher conference. However, it could be your child needs a different teaching approach than the one used in her classroom. If she is struggling to learn, chances are other kids are too. The teacher needs to be aware so she can make adjustments. The principal needs to know if her expensive new textbook is more sparkle and substance.
          Solving problems at your child's school is rarely an easy or short-term exercise. Rather than wring your hands or be intimidated, follow these steps when addressing a concern. If the problem appears to stem from the teacher or the school's curriculum, speak to the principal. If the meeting does not yield satisfactory results, try contacting other parents with similar concerns. Arrange a group discussion with the principal or teacher. This airing of issues should lead to better understanding and positive action. If all else fails (there are many things you can try first), you might want to ask yourself if this is the best school for your child.
          Do not check your parental instincts at the schoolhouse door! Make sure the lines of communication between you and your child's teacher are wide open and do not hesitate to use them. Teachers may be experts in reading or math, but you are the world's leading expert on your child.

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