A few weeks ago a well-known educator, Ron Clark, caused a stir in educational circles and in some media outlets. His article, What Teachers Really Want to Tell Parents, was thought by some to be as thought provoking as the title suggests – both positively and negatively.
Whether or not you agree with Ron’s standpoint or tone, two key items can be pulled from his article.
The Partnership
Schools exist to assist parents in their given calling to train their children in their physical, academic, and social development. Christian schools exist to do all this and assist in spiritual growth.
The key word in the above paragraph is assist. Schools do not replace the role of the parent; therefore, this partnership, based upon mutual respect and trust, must exist. Each party must also understand the others role.
As teachers we know that no one on earth cares for our students as their parents do. We know parents always have the best interest in mind for their child, and every parent is doing the best job he/she/they know how.
Parents must also know that teachers care deeply for their children and truly desire to see them develop into formidable students and exceptional people. We are trained educators doing the best job we know how.
We must also understand that both parties are imperfect.
There will be bumps along the road. When those bumps occur, it’s important to communicate with mutual respect and trust. It is essential both sides listen to one another and know there is likely a reason certain decisions were made. And, those choices probably were made with the child’s best interest in mind. Its is important that teachers remember that parents are looking out for their child’s welfare, and parents must know the teacher is doing the same.
Failure is an Option
The second important point is — It’s ok for kids to fail. I’m a parent; I never want any harm to come to my children. Yet, I also know some of the best lessons I’ve learned are from mistakes (both major and minor) that I’ve made. For instance, I forgot my uniform for a basketball game in 8th grade. Because I forgot, I couldn’t play. Guess how many times I forgot my uniform thereafter?
I know we all want our kids to be as happy as possible, but sometimes (not always, of course) the hard lesson is the best lesson. Sometimes it takes getting answers marked wrong to remember the correct one. Sometimes it takes a forgotten uniform. Character is built not only by what we achieve, but also by the obstacles we have to overcome to reach our goals. When teachers and parents let students receive undue excuses, we rob them of learning opportunities.
Teaching is a challenging profession, and parenting is an even more difficult calling. Let’s continue to be partners on the students’ path to success. Together we can help them – Aspire, Learn and Succeed.
