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Parents and Teachers: The Possibility of a Dream Team
This article brings up good points about how important communication is between the parents and the teacher. People constantly judge other people and the article talks about how educators and parents judge each other. If we could work together and not criticize each other, the other people who benefit are the students. The second point from the article is that parents often dump issues onto the teacher and expect the teacher to fix it. I have experienced this issue firsthand and it is probably the hardest to overcome as a teacher. It may not change but it is important to teach and encourage parents to continue working with children outside of school. The article introduces a three-call method where the teacher maintains contact with parents and discusses positives and not always negative news. This article is a great tool for teachers and I plan on working with parents to build a positive learning environment.
I agree with you about the importance of sharing both positive and negative information on students with parents. I think as teachers, we are often bogged down doing so many things that we "forget" to call when a student has an exceptionally good day. I also find it difficult as a secondary teacher to find time in my schedule to do that with the 150 students for whom I am responsible! It is, however, extremely important!
ReplyDeleteI liked this article. I am a huge proponent of parent communication-including positive calls home. Honestly, sometimes it is more rewarding to call a parent of a normally difficult child to say, "Hey "Joe" worked excellent in class today and actually got a B+ on his test." It may be the first positive experience they get from the school, and it means so much to not only the parent, but the student as well. It can be a GREAT motivator!
ReplyDeleteParents are often quick to blame the teacher for problems with the student. In fact, some teachers spend more time with the students than his or her parents. I agree with you when you say that the teacher needs to work hard to establish relationships with parents and ask for their support with their student at home. I try to remember to call or email parents when a "troubled" student has done something positive. Even the small things go a long way. I have see great things in my classroom when I have made a positive phone call home or sent a positive email. Parents are in almost constant contact with teachers via email and grading problems the schools have which lends them to be quick to blame the teacher! We need to keep up the positive messages! :)
ReplyDeleteThe relationship between the student, parent and teacher is important. Parent’s involvement is important and it aids the development of a student's learning and self worth. However, some parent have a few excuses why they cannot be involved with their child's school interaction. Is that fair to the child? I have stopped asking myself that question and work a little hard to ensure every child’s learning needs are met.
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