When our daughter started crying and couldn't stop for 20 minutes, we knew we had a problem.
In all her ten years, she had cried less than a couple dozen times. She was just one of those cheerful souls that remains unruffled by the storms of life. So this outburst, which began over some tiny family squabble, signaled some really bad stuff was going on in her life. But what?
When the flood finally ended, the story began to pour out. It seemed her teacher was not quite the inspiring mentor we had hoped for. In fact, story after story revealed a teacher who was inconsistent, unprepared, inattentive and just plain abusive at times. The student-teacher relationships were unproductive and hurtful. Even worse, my daughter, who had recently transferred from another school, was learning nothing in math. She had already covered most of the curriculum and was bored to tears. The teacher hadn't even noticed.
Not wanting to jump to conclusions, we checked out our daughter's story with other parents. Sure enough, their kids had been telling some pretty disturbing tales as well. Armed with some powerful evidence, we made an appointment with the principal.
Public Education Issues: When Bad Teachers are Protected
To his credit, the principal was honest with us and admitted to a long record of trouble. The district had tried to remove the teacher, but had failed. To protect students, they had moved this admittedly "bad" teacher to a school where a veteran principal could keep an eye out for troublesome behavior.
He encouraged us to write out our complaints. He hoped to gather enough evidence, he said, to force the board to take action. We did write a letter, but nothing ever happened to the teacher, who retired several years later without incident.
I'm glad this caring principal helped my daughter through a tough time with offers of counseling and individual math lessons. And I'm thankful that during the next eight years she had far more good teachers than bad ones. Some were downright wonderful, and we thanked them publicly whenever we could.
I'm still a little angry, though, and more than a bit confused by a system that protects horrible teachers and good ones with equal energy and resources. This is especially disturbing as study after study reports the single most important factor in student success is good teaching.
The only real way for parents to make sure their kids get good teachers is to stay involved.Those efforts take time, but pay off in the long run.
Parent-Teacher Communication: Praise the Good Teachers
Meanwhile, why not try something simple that can make a difference right away? Take the time today to thank a few teachers. Most of them do a hero's job with very little praise. Be specific about what you like and what they do well. Send a copy to the principal, the school board, and even to the local editor. Chances are the teacher will be overwhelmed, but strengthened to carry on.
More importantly, you'll build trust and a powerful partnership that will help your child become a winner at school.
Linda Wacyk is a parent and former EduGuide editor.