Whether
you have a concern to share with school officials or you are just seeking
information, there are ways to approach a school that make it more likely
you’ll get what you want.
First,
get as much information as you can before you go. You may want to write down
your questions in advance.
Be
sure to make an appointment, rather than appearing with no warning. That way
you can be sure that the individual you need to talk to will be available when
you arrive.
Approach
the conversation with an attitude that assumes everyone is working in the best
interest of your student. Acting respectfully will ensure that you receive
treatment that is respectful.
Include
your student in the discussions whenever possible. If agreements are made to
follow certain approaches, be sure to uphold your part of the bargain.
It’s
also important to get involved and stay involved. Join the PTA or parent group,
the site council, or just volunteer in a classroom or the office.
Most
schools involve parents in decision-making practices and evaluations of the
school’s goals.
As
your student’s main advocate, you need to know how to make the public school
system work for your child.
Schools
welcome this involvement because they know that children with involved parents
are more likely to work hard, obey the necessary rules, and succeed
academically. It’s well worth the effort.
