Amy Stewart

Classroom Management

7E: 170

 

            According to the Standards for Professional Practice and Competent Performance, we, as educators “…should develop and maintain an effective educational relationship with all students and educators.”  It is part of our job to create an environment that improves educational opportunities for all students.  We create an environment where we model and encourage respect.  We individually encourage students to learn and grow in a progressive, positive environment.  To accomplish this daunting task, I feel at times it is very important to communicate with, and sometimes get help from, each individual’s parents or guardians.  This is important in good times and in bad.   

The INTASC standard states that, “The practitioner fosters relationships with parents, school colleagues, and organizations in the larger community to support students’ learning and development.”  This is where parent involvement is a necessary component, as a support system.  While parents will differ, in goals and expectations, as well as ability and interest level, it is still our job to involve them when we are able.

            Parents who are well informed can get involved.  Beginning the year with an explanation of supplies needed, class schedule, special events schedules, and curriculum planned are a way to invite parents to feel a part of your classroom.  When we make parents more knowledgeable about our school it is easier for them to encourage their kids to discuss what is going on at school.

            Another technique I have seen is to send home a folder the same day each week.  This is where the most important notes are sent to the parent.  At the same time, this is where parents are able to enclose notes back to the teacher.  The folder is to return to school signed by the parent the next day.  Because conference time is limited, this is a good way for parents and teachers to voice concerns or successes more often.

            When dealing with parents I like the positive-negative-positive method for describing concerns.  Singling out only the problem can cause parents to be on the defensive.  It is less productive when a parent becomes distrustful of your opinion.  And, the truth is that sometimes a teacher needs the cooperation of parents when working to meet certain goals.  For example, if homework is the problem, asking a parent to check with the child each night about homework may be all it takes to remedy the problem. 

            In my home daycare I experienced a child who was pushing my patience.  He did not believe I would tell the parent of his misbehavior, because I always try to handle situations myself.  When I approached the parent about the child’s misbehavior, the child began to trust that I would follow through, and when the parent stood behind me, the problem was gone.  This is a real example for me where I really needed the parent to back me up.  If they hadn’t I would have lost all credibility.  In this case, I knew I could count on the parent for that, and as teachers, I realize we may not have such a close relationship with everyone.

            When discussing the problem with the parent, it is important to really listen, to try to get suggestions, and to keep an open mind.  If getting nowhere, it is probably best to let the issue rest and to meet again at a later time.  I think showing your concern and keeping a positive outlook is all you can do at that point.  It is simple really.  We care and we are working for the better of our classroom community.  We will also do what we can to get help to lessen problems and create an environment that improves educational opportunities for our kids.  And, working as a team is one way to be successful.