The Bond of Teacher and Parent #51

As a parent I was hands-on. I met with teachers, talked to them- got to know them. I saw the classroom and teaching preferences from a unique perspective. I did not always agree with their methods, but I never talked bad about them to my children. I instilled in them a sense of respect for their teachers. I do not always see the same respect- students can be misguided, misbehaved and even mislead- but in their hearts they are good people. We just need to listen and guide.

Parents often do not understand our path- our struggles- the fact that their child is not our only student. That we are juggling many things in the air at the same time- and we are trying to keep everything level and progressing. We are doing our best and by forging relationships with teachers- we are strengthening the foundation on which their children are growing and learning.

The Bond That Strengthens

I wish that every parent and teacher knew that as educators, parents are our best allies. They know their child better than anyone: their personality, struggles, quirks and beautiful nuances. They entrust their children to us daily, they believe we will do what is best for their child and when we don’t do this, they are our harshest critic. I personally appreciate their feedback. Parents should hold teachers to a high standard. They should pay attention to their child’s education and learning atmosphere. Is it a community? Is it a safe haven? Do their children feel safe and eager to be in school?

Parents listen to teachers’ opinions, often following their lead, without doubt, because they understand that they have their child’s learning and growth at heart. They know a great teacher when they meet one. They ask other parents, who their children had as a teacher, because they want to be prepared for the upcoming year. Teachers and parents are collaborators, at least they should be. They each carry with them part of the treasure map. Together the two halves, lead us to the perfect semblance of discipline, guidance and love. When they communicate regularly, and believe in the value of each other’s input, parents and teachers create a world where learning is where it should be, at the center of classroom life. 

I wish parents knew that we value them, appreciate their input. I wish teachers knew that parents, even though at times are overbearing and aggressive, are just looking out for their child. If they did, students would unequivocally know, we are all on the same side. They have caring eyes on them at home and at school. That they can ask questions, ask for help and share with us their struggles and frustrations so we together, can better serve their needs. I wish as a student, my parents and teachers had this collaboration, maybe then my formative learning years would have been more fruitful. Parents are a teacher’s greatest ally. In the education of their child, a teacher is a parents’ greatest ally. But, only through purposeful, meaningful dialogue can true cooperation take place.