Woman's Day, September 12th, 2006
Introduce Yourself
Julie Paolucci, a mom of five in Newington, Connecticut, sends a note of introduction to each of her children’s teachers. “I include relevant family information and anything specific the teacher needs to know about my child,” says Julie.
Keep in Touch
“I really appreciate the parents who let me know if there’s a situation at home that might affect their child’s behavior or performance at school, such as a death in the family, a new baby or a divorce,” says Clarissa Samuels, who teaches at a girls’ high school in Tyngsboro, Massachusetts.
Pitch In
Offer to help out with your child’s class. With budget cuts affecting many public schools, the time you invest really can make a difference. Ask the teacher if she needs worksheets copied, a trip chaperoned or help planning a holiday celebration. Or ask what you can do “offsite.”
Be a Great Communicator
If an issue arises, set up an appointment to talk with the teacher about it sooner rather than later. “By communicating early on, most problems can be easily resolved,” says Clarissa. If you’re still not satisfied after speaking with the teacher, enlist her help in setting up a meeting with the principal. Involving the teacher as you move up the chain of command increases the chances that she’ll remain an ally.
Show Your Appreciation
“A parent once wrote to the principal praising my efforts in the classroom,” says Joshua Blagg, who has taught fourth and sixth grade and now teaches high school in Chelmsford, Massachusetts. “I’ll never forget how good it made me feel.”
