In light of the ongoing challenges in public education, I’ve taken some time to reflect on my experiences as an elementary school teacher over the past several years. While I’ve had the privilege of working with fantastic parents, there have been moments when I’ve had to hold back some strong reactions. As I transition into being a stay-at-home mom with my first child, it’s the perfect moment to share what many teachers wish parents understood.
- Homework Can Be Counterproductive.
I assigned homework mainly due to district mandates. While reading is crucial, enforcing it can turn a joyful activity into a dreaded chore. Children learn significantly more through social interactions with their peers than from rote math exercises. - Teachers Aren’t Here to Be the Villain.
Teaching isn’t a profession pursued for fame or riches. It’s a calling driven by a love for children and a commitment to education. If your child perceives me as “mean,” it’s often a result of their own behavior not aligning with classroom expectations. - Kids Sometimes Stretch the Truth.
Even the most well-behaved child may embellish stories to avoid trouble. Please don’t rush to accuse teachers based on your child’s version of events. Instead, encourage honesty; it helps everyone involved. - Teaching Involves More Than Just Teaching.
A mere 10% of a teacher’s job involves actual instruction. Most of our time is spent in meetings—often about other meetings—leaving little room for one-on-one interactions. - Leadership Matters.
An effective principal can greatly influence teacher morale and job satisfaction. I’ve experienced both great and poor leadership, and it makes a world of difference. - Kindness Goes a Long Way.
Teachers are more inclined to assist parents who approach them with kindness. A polite request for an extension can yield better results than a stern demand. - Elementary Grades Don’t Define Future Success.
A “B” in second-grade math won’t hinder college prospects. Admissions committees understand that elementary accomplishments aren’t indicative of future capabilities. - Teachers Appreciate a Good Drink.
If you catch a teacher at happy hour, consider buying them a drink! They often need a break after a long day filled with challenges. - We Have Our Own Lives.
Teachers are dedicated, but like everyone, we also cherish family time. Don’t expect immediate replies to emails outside of school hours. - Awards Should Reflect Achievement.
While every child is special, not every child deserves a trophy. Recognizing actual accomplishment encourages hard work rather than complacency. - Kids Share Everything.
When parents speak negatively about teachers in front of their children, it undermines respect and complicates our efforts in the classroom. - Cupcakes Aren’t Our Favorite.
We love celebrating birthdays but not the mess that often comes with sweets. Opt for healthier, less messy treats like fruit snacks or cookies. - Standardized Tests Aren’t Everything.
They often just measure how well a child can memorize and recall information, which isn’t a true reflection of their capabilities. - Let Kids Be Kids.
Avoid hovering too closely. Children learn valuable life skills during unstructured playtime, which is essential for their development. - No News is Often Good News.
If you don’t hear from your child’s teacher regularly, it might mean your child is doing well. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you want an update. - Trust Our Expertise.
Teachers are trained professionals. If you ask for guidance, please consider our recommendations seriously, as we have a wealth of knowledge. - Avoid Using Your Child as a Benchmark.
Every child learns at their own pace. Comparing your child to others can lead to unnecessary pressure and anxiety. - Rules are for Everyone.
School policies are in place for safety. Bending the rules teaches children that they can disregard expectations. - Behavior Changes in Groups.
Children often act differently among peers. What they wouldn’t do alone might seem acceptable in a crowd, and that’s part of their learning process. - We Value Involved Parents.
When parents engage with school activities, it positively impacts their children’s attitudes toward education. Join us for lunch or volunteer; it makes a difference.
Throughout my journey, I’ve built incredible relationships with amazing children and parents. Teaching is demanding but incredibly fulfilling. Understanding our challenges can foster appreciation for the work we do.
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Summary:
This article outlines key insights elementary school teachers wish parents understood, covering topics from the ineffectiveness of homework to the importance of parental involvement. By fostering communication and understanding, parents can better support their children’s educational journey.