Sooner or later, you may run into a problem with your child’s teacher. This isn't something you can avoid. Parent involvement in education is crucial for your child. Use the four steps of our Teacher Troubleshooter to overcome issues with student/teacher relationships and build stronger partnerships to support your child.
Don’t Assume the Teacher Is the Whole Problem
As in any profession, some teachers are better at certain things than others. But it takes two to tango. Most problems — and most solutions — involve contributions from each party.
Parent/Teacher Communication
Going behind the teacher's back won't help. Parent/teacher communication is key to helping your child. Work first with the teacher. Be honest about your concerns and ask what each of you can do to make the situation better. Make a list together with a plan to share info on progress. If your teacher seems defensive, be patient. Getting burned by “problem” parents may have colored the way he or she relates to every parent. Some families jump from one teacher or school to another, only to find they’ve taken their problems with them. If things go badly, start by working on your part. Parent's problems are not always a teacher's fault. Your child will become stronger by learning skills to deal with difficult situations.
Parent Involvement in Education
Don’t waste a year of your child’s education by ignoring the issue. Research shows that the effects of a bad school year can still be seen on a child’s test scores up to three years later. Parent involvement in education can help to off-set this. Find tutors and other programs to fill what’s missing. Some schools will consider mid-year teacher switches.
Request a Teacher for Next Year
For the next year, many schools will allow parents to let them know their teacher preference in writing during the spring. But keep in mind that principals don’t always want to do this because they can’t make everyone happy, including you. Ask the principal how she handles teacher choices. Focus your request on your child’s needs, not the teacher’s faults or strengths, and then ask for recommendations. Just keep in mind that finding the right fit may be less obvious than you think. Some teachers get better results with low achievers, some with high. Popularity isn’t a good gauge because everyone measures success differently. One researcher found that the principal’s picks for best teacher weren’t always the best at boosting student achievement.
Bryan Taylor, publisher of EduGuide, is a national speaker for parents, students and educators whose work has been featured in a televised dialogue with the U.S. Secretary of Education.