1. “My child is acting up because he’s bored. He’s so bright.”
Bright kids act up too. If you truly think your kid is bright, ask for more work.
2. “I know it’s open house, but let me tell you about my child’s…”
Open house is a time for everyone to get comfortable. You’ll have time to brag or complain about your kid at the parent-teacher conference.
3. “Jane is picking on my daughter. I want her punished!”
Parents only hear one side of the story. Ask if the teacher is aware of a problem and what can be done to solve it.
4. “You give too much homework!”
Homework is an opportunity for you to see what your child is learning and take an active role in their education.
5. “Billy’s homework is not done because...”
Unless it’s a major life crisis or emergency, don’t bother with the excuses. Your child will learn a better life lesson if they have to face the consequences.
6. “Our old teacher didn’t make us do that.”
Good teachers usually have an individual style. Give your new teacher at least one marking period before you judge the technique.
7. “I talked to the principal and superintendent about this…”
Going over a teacher’s head as a first step is both disrespectful and unproductive.
8. "Why did you give my child this grade?”
Unless you spot an obvious error, try asking what your child can do to improve the grade.
9. “I’d like to hear your side of the story.”
This may sound diplomatic – but it may put the teacher on the defensive and seem as though you’re pitting teacher against student.
10. "We're going on vacation for a week. Can you put together a packet of my daughter's work so she doesn't fall behind?"
First of all, pulling your child out for more than a day for a non-emergency is a bad idea. If you must – ask for a general overview of what the teacher will be covering that week. The teacher should not be expected to put in a lot of extra work to accommodate your leisure time.
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