Domain 7: Communication
3:15 p.m.
Elaboration:
Today after school I had my first conversation over the phone with a parent. Right after school, while waiting for the bus, four boys got into an argument. After continuing the argument, Mrs. Brown said that they would all have to return in the morning and talk to the principal about it. One of the boys, being worried, went home and told his dad about it. He told his dad that he had clipped a strip for that, although in reality his clip strip was for disruption earlier in the day. I explained to the parent what had happened and that nothing had been decided yet from this argument. I told him that they were supposed to be meeting tomorrow morning to figure it out and that we would keep him updated on the situation.
Analysis:
At first, this was a bit terrifying to be honest. I had to back up what I said according to what was done with the situation. I was the one there talking with the boys about it. Therefore, I was able to tell the parent what I had seen and what was anticipated to happen. The parent said that he is not saying his son is blameless, but he also wants to make sure that he was not the only one getting blamed for something others were involved in. I tried to communicate with the parent that we try to take all of the children into consideration, and don't just listen to one person's side of the story. He seemed grateful for talking with me and I thanked him for calling. I think that overall, it was a positive first experience for this sort of a thing. It seemed as if he truly had the child's best interest at heart and wanted to team up to help him. He said I could call anytime I needed something. I think this is what parent teacher involvement should be.
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It is really different speaking to parents. We often feel intimidated or unsure about how we may be perceived by others who do not know us as well. You were able to verbalize the situation objectively and respond in a thoughtful student-centered way.
ReplyDeleteEven if a parent responds negatively, remember that emotions often get in the way. That does not mean that you are wrong or that a disagreement can not be resolved. I found that if I verbally communicated my interest in the child's well-being, that parents were more supportive. It also helps when open communication happens for positive communication as well--like phone calls and notes of praise. The more you speak with parents, the easier those tougher moments will be.
Well done, Jen. :)
Prof. Manwell