A Teacher’s View:

Level head can prevail over feared phone call

Wednesday, April 22, 2009 | 2:15 p.m.

Rene Hill

Calling home to discuss academic or behavior problems is never easy for a teacher to do; it is a delicate situation that often makes parents panic or get defensive. Teachers think long and hard about how to present problems to parents without assigning blame or being confrontational. Some suggestions may help ease this potentially difficult situation.

First, a parent should make sure that he or she clearly understands the nature of the teacher's concern. Ask the teacher to be specific and give examples of what is of concern. If the teacher says that the child is having trouble with schoolwork, find out if it is with one specific subject or if the student is having trouble with all the work. Did a failed test prompt the phone call or has the child been having consistent trouble over time? Don't be shy about asking the teachers questions. Allow the teacher to express concerns completely.

Next, work with the teacher to create a plan to curtail the problem. No one knows a child better than his or her parents, so share your ideas with the teacher. Get the child involved with the plan as well.

Most importantly, follow up with the teacher. During the busy school day it is easy to forget to let parents know when a problem has been resolved. I know I appreciate it when a parent contacts me with a note or phone call to follow up on their child's progress. If the problem continues, meet with the teacher to determine if a school counselor or principal needs to get involved.

Rene Hill is an English teacher in the Clark County School District. She can be reached c/o The News, 2360 Corporate Circle, Third Floor, Henderson, NV 89074 or editor@hbcpub.com.