Unfairness, misunderstanding, hurt feelings, and conflict are experiences common to all of us. It takes teamwork to provide the best possible education for every child. Being approachable and acting with integrity are foundational principles for our administrators, teachers, and coaches.
STEP ONE
Take your concern to the person closest to the problem.
No matter where the problem is, take your concerns there first. Whether in the classroom, on the bus, or on the practice field, the staff most involved should resolve the issue.
STEP TWO
Present your concern to the next level.
Principals and Directors are the next levels of school personnel to contact. They will expect the unresolved issue was addressed at Step One. Often, they can facilitate the discussion between the parent, staff member or community member.
STEP THREE
Talk with the Superintendent.
Sometimes all the best intentions can’t solve a problem. When you believe you’ve worked hard with those closest to the problem, and you’ve taken the issue to the next level but still haven’t achieved a satisfactory outcome, the Superintendent is next. A meeting with the Superintendent will probably require some advance scheduling.
STEP FOUR
Contact your school board members.
School board members are elected to represent the interest of all parents and District residents. You are welcome to communicate your point of view. School board members do not, however, have authority in day-to-day school operations.
Contact a board member….
- after other means to solve a problem have been tried.
- when an enforced policy results in unintended consequences.
- when a policy isn’t enforced equitably or at all.
The board member may take one or all of the following actions:
- informally discuss the issue with the Superintendent.
- request that the Board reviews the specific policies that relate to the situation.
- propose new policies for the Board’s consideration.
SUGGESTIONS
Make time to talk with school personnel regularly.
Know who your children’s teachers, bus drivers, and coaches are and contact information.
Communicate concerns quickly and openly.
Get concerns out in the open early. The problem may be the result of an oversight or misunderstanding.
Give everyone a chance to understand your concern.
When scheduling an appointment, please share the general nature of the concern. Doing so provides an opportunity to reflect on it and prepare.
Be careful sharing frustrations with your children.
A unified team o f parent and school personnel provides the most effective educational experience. Use caution when sharing frustrations regarding school with your children so that a temporary problem does not permanently alter the student’s perception of teamwork between school and home.