Question:
How do I let go of a nasty parent e-mail/ tough day?
CatherineKU
2007-01-22 21:05:04 UTC
I have had two major blows in the past two days. The first one I won't go into here, but it almost ruined my weekend. The second: A parent has accused me of having a bias against boys. Her son is always absent from class, when he shows up, he is tardy and he never comes in to make up work.
When I write her to remind her that her son is behind, she sends me demeaning e-mail calling me unprofessional! This is the second time she has questioned my professional conduct. I would love to reply with a cutting remark about her "perfect" child, but I know better... Any advice on how to release my frustration in a better way? Thanks!
PS, My other male students perform quite well in the class. They seem happy with my teaching and haven't complained about be treated differently.
Nine answers:
anonymous
2007-01-22 21:18:13 UTC
First of all, I hope you showed the email to the principal. It sounds as though that mother may be trying to accuse you of discrimination, and that is a serious subject and charge. It's best to get your principal/supervisor/department head in on it right from the start.



I don't know if you're a parent, but in many cases, there is a lot of guilt involved in parenting, especially with a child that struggles. It's much easier on the conscience if a lax parent can blame others for the problems of the child, for the failings of the parent to supervise and discipline their child. Some parents don't have the time, or the skills, or the desire. That's just the way it is.



As long as you're keeping close documentation on the problems with her child, and keeping her informed so she isn't blind-sided when he possibly fails the class, you're doing your job as far as she is concerned. She should have a face to face conference with you, maybe with someone else there for support.



Have you asked other teachers if he is the same way in their classes? Sounds like it's time for a case conference, with the counselor if necessary.



As for your frustration...Bill Cosby said "I don't know the key to success, but the key to failure is trying to please everybody." You do the best you can and realize you are not going to be the end all, be all for every single student. Whatever you do, don't stoop to her level. Put her email away until the next day. Type up response if you want, but don't mail it until you've cooled off and can go back and read it again, or have someone else read it for appropriateness.



Then treat yourself to something special for being the kind of teacher who truly cares about the success of her students. You have a tough job. Thanks for taking it on!!
Madre
2007-01-22 21:17:48 UTC
Have you requested a conference with this parent, and perhaps have a guidance counselor present?



To begin with, I dislike communication via email unless it's a follow up or routine update that's already expected. My reason for shying away from email is because there is no tone of voice attached. What you type out of concern, has no compassion behind the words, and can be misconstrued innocently. Even a phone call hides body gestures, and that too is important when bringing a problem to a parent's attention.



Another benefit of meeting in person, you might possibly learn of some traumatic family situation that is causing this family unease...which would not only explain the mom's attitude, but the child's absences.



Some parents get very defensive when it comes to constructive criticism, but for the most part, there is just a flaw in communication, or a more serious issue at hand.



The fact that you came here for help shows you want a resolution, but try not to be too angry or judgemental until all the facts are in...it will help see things more clearly, and will also help in the long run.
Me!
2007-01-23 02:09:11 UTC
A mother will always stand up for her "darling" children. The teacher will always be wrong in her eyes. Show the e-mail to the principal of the school and he/she should call the mother in and explain that you are only doing your job. You were right to write a letter to her and explain what is happenening with her children etc. Some teachers just ignore it and if the child doesn't do well in his/her class her/his attitude is "so what?? The child is the next teacher's problem next year." You're in the right. Don't let her get to you. Parents are never happy. Either the teacher is too involved in their child's life or not involved enough.



GOOD LUCK!!! :-)
teacupn
2007-01-22 21:25:57 UTC
This sounds like the classic behavior of a parent trying to shift the blame for her son's lackluster school performance and her bad parenting onto you.

She most likely did the same with previous teachers. You do what you can, you show her the missed assignments, you show her the attendance records. Maybe it's time for a case conference, with the principal, a social worker/ counselor, the parents, and yourself. Don't fall into her trap, stay calm, this kid's records speak for themselves. Bad parents always resort to the defense 'not my kid', or 'the teacher is unprofessional', or 'the teacher is biased, she just doesn't like my son', etc. because it's easier than actually having to grow the spine to discipline her lazy son. She may be just as lazy, apples do not fall far from their trees here. Hang in there.
?
2016-10-16 03:31:58 UTC
The sister ought to no longer be a component of the bridal celebration. The dresses are already ordered, issues are set, that deliver has sailed. in the experience that your FMIL is truly pitching a in good structure, make the sister a reader or candle lighter or something to keep her out of ways. family members unity is substantial (there's a good probability that in case you %. this conflict, you'll lose yet another one down the line) yet it is ridiculous. If neither you nor your fiance needs her to be interior the marriage celebration and each and each of the arrangements were made - it is executed. "i'm sorry you experience that way, yet arrangements have already been made. If you should you and Sister that she be blanketed, i'm advantageous we may be able to arise with a answer." i'm truly sorry it is occurring to you. see you later as your fiance is backing you up - you should be okay.
04/12/2008 :)
2007-01-22 21:15:05 UTC
Dont let it get to you! The parents of that Child will always take their childs side thats normal.. Just blow it off and remember that in 10 years when you are still a great teacher.. He'll be probably asking you if you want fries with that at lunch! :-)
anonymous
2007-01-24 17:45:06 UTC
My only response to emails like this is: Thank you for your email. I encourage parent to ask questions about their childrens' performance. So that you will be completly informed, I have arranged for all of your son's teachers and his administrator to meet with us for a parent/teacher/student conference on ______________. If you are unable to keep this appointment, please call school to reschedule to a more convenient time.



Ask all teachers to bring a list of his strengths and weaknesses and his grades and attendence record to share with his mom.
anonymous
2007-01-22 21:37:35 UTC
He loves you! My mom does the same thing to my teachers lol. Just keep fighting.
tom_walker86
2007-01-22 21:17:35 UTC
Add her email address into your spam filter. ( return her email with a virus or spam attachment would be a second choice)


This content was originally posted on Y! Answers, a Q&A website that shut down in 2021.
Loading...