Parent's Corner: Teachers Need Our Help!

As a parent, it's easy to get frustrated with the system that educates our children. We all know that there is no money in the state to properly fund what we parents  need and want for their education. The burden then falls on the teachers to try to make up the difference in the best way that they can. Unfortunately, these teachers may or may not have the resources they deem necessary to do the job properly.

The question then becomes, how can we, as parents, support the teachers so that our children's needs are met while at school?

Obviously, the first thing would be for school districts (and parents) give them money to purchase supplies at the start of every year. That isn't likely to happen in the current economy. We can, though, support them via other cost effective means.

A simple “thank you” every once in a while goes a long way with a teacher. The main thing we can do is to simply understand that they are doing the best they can with what they have. If you have a problem with your child's teacher, communication is key. Step as far away from the emotions as you can, then open a line to your teacher to work out the problem.

On the other hand, when the problem is bigger than the classroom, we can help them out by becoming ACTIVE on behalf of our students and schools. Whether that is volunteering at the school during school hours or at school events, joining the PTSA at our child's school, or helping our students by providing what assistance we can at home. Many times, students have problems simply because the parents either can't or won't assist with school work.

When it comes to Title I schools with a large English Language Learner population, sometimes the issue is a language barrier or even lack of English literacy on the part of the parent. At times it is the student translating as best as they can for the parent. Sometimes, crucial information that is needed for the school can get lost and  issues are not resolved. Bi-lingual parents can help by teaching the other parents English through various ESL programs. Making sure that the parents understand the language is a way not to try to make them feel inferior,but simply trying to provide them with the tools they need to help their children succeed.

In the long run it all comes back to our children. What our children need is our support in whatever way we can give it. Supporting our children in school means supporting their educators. Whether you agree with the policies that constrain them, or with the lack of finances they are given, is irrelevant. When you don't agree, become active to make a change. You can lead the charge on the school, district, or state level to try to affect those changes that you feel most necessary. BEING ACTIVE, though, in your child's education is the best way to begin the school year!