As I take a break from teaching to embrace motherhood, I find myself reflecting on my experiences over the past seven years as an elementary school educator. I’ve encountered wonderful parents and, at times, felt the urge to express my frustrations more colorfully when faced with challenging situations. Now seems like the perfect time to share some insights that all teachers wish parents understood.
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Homework Isn’t Always Beneficial
I assigned homework primarily because my school required it. While reading is essential, forcing kids to do it can transform a joyful activity into a dreaded chore. In my experience, the academic performance of students who did their homework regularly didn’t significantly differ from those who didn’t. Kids learn a lot from socializing and playing with friends, which often outweighs the benefits of completing math worksheets. -
Teachers Aren’t Here to be Mean
Teaching isn’t a career driven by fame or wealth; it’s rooted in a passion for nurturing children and fostering learning. If your child perceives me as “mean,” it’s likely due to their own choices rather than any malice on my part. Establishing classroom rules and consequences is a way to demonstrate care for their educational success—not to make their lives miserable. -
Children Might Not Tell the Whole Truth
Even the most well-behaved child may embellish the truth to avoid trouble. It’s vital to approach situations with an open mind rather than jumping to conclusions. For instance, if your child claims another student is responsible for an issue, consider the possibility that they might be deflecting from their own actions. Encourage honesty by letting them know that mistakes are acceptable, but lying has greater consequences. -
Teaching Is Only a Fraction of Our Role
When I envisioned being a teacher, I imagined engaging lessons and happy children. The reality is that much of our time is spent in meetings—many of which are redundant or unnecessary. When you request a conference, and the earliest available date is weeks away, it’s often because my schedule is filled with these meetings. -
School Leadership Matters
The effectiveness of a school often hinges on its principal. A supportive principal can create a positive work environment, while a poor one can make each day feel daunting. I’ve experienced both ends of the spectrum. -
Kindness Goes a Long Way
Teachers are more inclined to assist parents who are respectful and understanding. The relationship between parents and teachers should be collaborative, not adversarial. Approaching your child’s teacher with kindness, instead of demands, can lead to more favorable outcomes. -
Grades in Elementary School Aren’t Everything
Rest assured, a grade in second grade won’t determine your child’s future. Admissions counselors at universities are more interested in a student’s overall journey than outdated report cards. -
We Appreciate a Good Drink
If you spot a teacher enjoying a drink after hours, know that it’s often a well-deserved escape from the day’s stresses. Gift cards to places like Target are also appreciated, as they can help brighten our evenings. -
We Value Family Time
While many teachers pour their heart and soul into their job, they also cherish time with their families. Just as you wouldn’t expect a lawyer to respond to calls late at night, please understand that teachers also need time away from work. -
Awards Should Be Earned
It’s important to recognize genuine accomplishments. While every student brings something unique to the classroom, not every child should receive an award if they haven’t put in the effort required to earn it. This practice can diminish the achievements of those who have worked hard. -
Kids Share Everything
If you speak negatively about a teacher in front of your child, they will likely share that sentiment, which undermines respect and makes it difficult for us to do our jobs effectively. -
Cupcakes Aren’t the Best Treats
While we love celebrating student birthdays, we prefer alternatives to sticky treats that create a mess in the classroom. Snacks like fruit or cookies are much easier to manage. -
Standardized Tests Aren’t the Full Picture
These tests often reflect a child’s ability to memorize rather than their true understanding or creativity. -
Let Kids Be Kids
Avoid being a helicopter parent. Children learn essential skills through play and social interactions, which are just as crucial as academic lessons. -
No News Is Often Good News
If you don’t hear from your child’s teacher often, it might be because your child is doing well. However, always feel free to reach out for updates or to schedule a chat! -
Trust Our Expertise
Teachers are trained professionals. When we offer advice, it’s based on our experience and education, so please take it seriously. -
Don’t Use Your Child for Competition
Every child has their strengths. Comparing your child to others can create unnecessary pressure and anxiety. -
Rules Are for Everyone
No one is above the rules, including you and your child. Following school policies helps instill respect for authority and the importance of structure. -
Behavior Changes in Groups
Kids often behave differently in group settings. Their decisions in school may not reflect who they are at home, and this is part of their learning process. -
Involvement Matters
Parents who engage with school activities help foster a supportive environment for their children. Join them for lunch or volunteer at events to strengthen that bond.
I’ve had the pleasure of forming incredible relationships with students and parents over the years. Teaching can be demanding, but it’s also profoundly rewarding. As we navigate the future of education, let’s continue to work together for our children’s success.
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Summary
This article shares important insights from an elementary school teacher, highlighting the realities of teaching, the significance of collaboration between parents and educators, and the need for respect, understanding, and engagement in a child’s education. Teachers strive to create supportive learning environments and appreciate the involvement of parents in their children’s lives.