"Dear Teachers and Parents: About those parent-teacher conferences . . . "
Our common sense tells us these things I am about to list below. But somehow there are those of us who always need reminded. As we approach parent-teacher conferences, let us pray carefully that God would lead conversations and guard our tongues. We must remember that all our students do not act like angels and not all are above average. Perhaps you will find something you need to remind yourself to do in the admonitions below.
Whether you are a teacher or a parent, the same principles apply. If you are frustrated with a teacher, remember the teacher may be frustrated with your child! And if you as a teacher are frustrated with a child or parent, know that they are probably frustrated with you! Determine to say "I'm sorry" if you need to --it does dispel the tension. Admitting faults is not easy, but oh, sometimes so necessary for teamwork!
Avoid accusations even if you clearly see the reason for the problem and would LOVE to say so! We are all human, and when accused, we become resistant. It hurts when others attack us, even if they do not use harsh words. Plan statements carefully and be sure you are not using a tone that will portray accusation.
Be prepared not only to state problems carefully, but also give some positive comments and suggest solutions. Put some real thought into what you have to say if it is volatile. Ask God for the right words! A harsh word or a bumbling statement will surely be remembered. Find the positive side of the situation and talk about it. Have specific ideas for a solution. State those ideas carefully!
Ask for help. Ask even when you don't think you really need help or you think the other person is not willing. Most parents or teachers are willing to help when problems arise. Asking for help will bring us together in our plan of action.
Listen carefully. Ask God to show you any hurts or prejudices that need to be dealt with. WE may have an attitude that God wants to change. We may need to be sensitive to a family situation, or a teacher's routine, or a past experience that the current issue is similar to.
Believe in the student! Kids are truly amazing and will outperform the norm if we challenge them. Never give up on a child. Let him or her know you are not going to give up. God did say the "impossible" WAS "possible" with Him. What if we give Him our impossible students, parents, and teachers!
Learn to be positive! Often the "problems" loom bigger than they really are because we don't line them up next to the "good things." Have sincere compliments for others and seek out the good.
Determine to be the parent or teacher that others are eager to talk to at parent-teacher conferences. It really might be up to YOU to set the tone!
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