Positive Problem Solving
When mistakes are made, try to resolve them quickly and completely. Then move forward. The goal is the successful education of your child.
Try to approach each new school year as an opportunity for a fresh start regardless of past issues or conflicts.
You are the expert on your child, and each school staff partner has their own area of educational expertise and experience. Each can learn from the other about how to meet the developmental and educational needs of your child. Remind yourself that you and school staff have the same goal, your child’s success.
It’s important for parents to understand their rights and responsibilities and how the system works. Ask for and read the school district’s parent handbook.
Try to address your questions or concerns to the most appropriate person. It may be the teacher, principal, or superintendent of schools.
If you have ongoing conflict with a specific staff person, and you are unable to successfully resolve the issue with them directly, ask to speak with their immediate supervisor.
Try to disagree without being disagreeable. Separate the person from the problem. Keep adult issues between adults. In most cases, you and your child will have an ongoing relationship with the school long after the conflict is past.
When you feel upset or confused, try to ask questions rather than becoming angry. Ask school staff to explain using words you understand.
Focus on possible solutions, rather than the problem itself. Make sure the “problem” is clearly defined.
When there is a disagreement on how to approach an area of concern, be willing to try something new on a trial basis. Make sure there’s a plan in place to collect information during the trial period to determine whether the new plan should be continued.