Working with Teachers and Schools

[via: http://www.myeducationtimes.com/]

Many teachers say that they often don’t receive information from parents about problems at home. Many parents say that they don’t know what the school expects from their 

children – or from them. Sharing information is essential and both teachers and parents are responsible for making it happen. Here are some guidelines that will help you help 

your child succeed in school. 

What do I do first? 

• Learn everything you can about your child’s school. The more you know, the easier your job as a parent will be. 
• Be sure to read the Student/Parent Handbook. This will answer many questions that may arise over the year. 
• Ask questions. For example: What are your expectations for my child? How does the school measure student progress?  What are the school’s rules and regulations? 
• Keep informed throughout the school year. Attend PTO meetings. Read this weekly newsletter as well as all other notices and letters that are sent home. 

When should I talk with my child’s teacher? 

• Early and often. Contact your child’s teacher or teachers at the beginning of the year or as soon as you can. Get acquainted and show your interest. 
• Tell teachers what they need to know about your child. If he/she has special needs, make these known from the beginning. 
• If you notice a big change in your child’s behavior, school performance or attitude during the school year, contact the teacher immediately. 
• Call the teacher if your child doesn’t understand an assignment or if he needs extra help to complete an assignment. 

What if my child has a problem with homework or not 

understanding what’s happening in class? 

• Contact the teacher as soon as you suspect that your child has problem with his/her schoolwork. You may figure out that a problem exists before the teacher does. By alerting the teacher, you can work together to solve a problem in its early stages. 
• Request a meeting with the teacher to discuss problems. Approach the teacher with a cooperative spirit. Believe that the teacher wants to help you and your child, even if you disagree about something. Let the teacher know if you need to make special arrangements, such as including in the meeting someone who is bilingual. 

A booklet entitled “Helping Your Child Succeed in School” is available online at this link: 

www2.ed.gov/parents/academic/help/succeed/index.html