Problem with the teacher? Follow these steps for a successful resolution...

Now that the "honeymoon" period is over, kids and teachers have found their comfort zones.  Maybe you're realizing this year's teaching style isn't 100% compatible with your child's learning style?  Or perhaps you are frustrated that communication regarding missing/late homework has not been forthcoming.  Whatever your dissatisfaction is with your child's teacher you want to make sure you follow these steps to achieve resolution.

1. Share your concerns with the teacher.  Some parents prefer to do this over email and avoid a face-to-face confrontation, some prefer to meet because it feels more official.  Either way you want to make sure you don't bypass this important step.  If you need to proceed to the counselor or administrator (Principal or Assistant Principal) the very first question they will ask is "Have you talked with the teacher?" Most teachers are reasonable people who really care about kids and are willing to make adjustments to help your child achieve success.  The majority of parents who take time to talk to the teacher do not even feel the need to proceed to step 2.

2. If your conversation with your child's teacher does not produce the desired outcome, the next step would be to speak with your child's counselor.  Many times they can make suggestions for change that will be agreeable to both the parent and the teacher, as well as serve as a mediator or buffer so the teacher doesn't feel attacked.  If the counselor is unable to resolve your concerns, he/she will then direct you to the appropriate administrator.

3.  At this stage of the game, the Principal or A.P. will usually create a plan that will require the teacher to adjust in order to alleviate your concerns.  Many administrators will give this a short window - a week or two - to work.  If there are still issues after the administration gets involved, it may be time to ask for a schedule change.

Many parents make the mistake of demanding a schedule change before they even speak with the teacher.  Often the concerns that make it past one conversation with the teacher are part of a two-part problem; the student and the teacher must be willing to bend in order to resolve it.  Most of the time this can be solved by a meeting with the counselor (a diplomatic third party) and without upsetting the student's entire schedule.  If a change is needed, parents should try to be flexible and remember that certain courses are only offered at certain times and that it does not benefit anyone - your child or the others in the class - to overfill a classroom because you like that teacher better than the one your child is currently assigned to.

Have you ever needed to request a teacher change for your child?  Fill us in on the steps you took and whether or not you were able to achieve the outcome you desired!