What Teachers Wish Parents Knew

It's Parent-Teacher Conference time in my school district, which can be stressful for both parties. So let's talk. I'll let you in on a few things teachers wish parents knew, and you can reciprocate in the comment section.


1. Teachers went into the profession because we love children and love learning.

Most of us did not go into teaching for the summers off. Those who did last about three years, because eight weeks of summer does not make up for ten months of misery. No, most of us went into education because we love children and love to teach. That's why the classroom light goes on at six AM or doesn't turn off until six PM in many cases. There's no "upward mobility" in teaching. So why do we work long hours for no extra pay? Simple: your children are worth it.

2. We know more about your home situation than you think.

Not because we gossip in the staff lounge. (Heck, many of us don't have time to eat in the "lounge" anymore.) We know because your children tell us or we pick up cues, and we're concerned. Not in a Desperate Housewives way, but in a "how can I help my student?" way. So please don't be afraid to let us know that there's a divorce pending, dad lost his job, or there's a serious illness in the family. We understand confidentiality and will not spread news. We WILL gain insight into why your child is more withdrawn, having trouble with homework, or is acting out, and we will help in any way we can.

3. Your child is not our only student.

Your concern is rightly your child's education. So is ours. But we have more than one student, and if your child's behavior negatively impacts other children, a responsible teacher will address it, not because we can't handle your child's (fill in the blank): "energy level", "communication style" or "advanced intelligence". We'll address it because those qualities are changing the classroom climate, and that's not fair to other children.

There is a certain level of conformity expected in schools. For instance, we expect children to walk down the hallway because walking is safer than running and won't disturb other students' learning. Some parents shudder at the word "conformity". But the best teachers know when conformity is wise (as in walking in lines) and when it's not (as in being too rigid with assignments). Which leads me to my last point:

4. We want what's best for your child.

If the rather rigid scheduling of public school life is not for your child, there are options. I think it's wonderful that homeschooling is successful and on the rise; it gives parents choices. And if your child is miserable in public school no matter what we try, than you SHOULD explore every educational opportunity. If your child's teacher doesn't give his or her blessing, that's too bad. Good teachers want what's best for your child, and that's the bottom line.

So, what say you, readers? Tell me what you wish teachers knew about children, education, or parenting. Thank you!