Case
Complaining Parent

Coach Smith teaches PE and coaches a middle school softball team in her lifelong hometown. Although she diligently works daily to provide the best for all of her students and players, one mother simply will not let up. Every day this mother finds something to complain about whether it is about coaching styles, coaching techniques, or teaching practices. Many believe that the complaining is insignificant and simply an attempt to make things hard for Coach Smith. Although she has been patient throughout it all, it is beginning to bother her tremendously. What should she do?

Solution #1
Top Solution
While I agree, Mrs. Smith has to talk this issue out with the parent, I think that there should be some sort of mediator present during this conversation. Calling in an administrator or another coach to sit in with this parent will help diffuse the situation and will eliminate the "he said she said" issue that could arise after this conversation. If the parent is making it difficult for Mrs. Smith to do her job, then I would hope an administrator or more experienced coach would set boundaries for the parent in order to create some breathing space for Coach Smith. She also has to understand that some parents, really some people, are just not going to be happy no matter how hard you try. Maintain a professional approach with this parent and try to wait it out. That child will not be in your team/class forever.

If I were in this situation, I would exactly do this.

Solution #2
Ms.Smith needs to address the parent in a professional manner regarding her complaints. Start with thanking her for her feedback and then carefully, letting her know that her feedback is appreciated. Furthermore, Ms. Smith needs to understand, she can not make all parents happy. She should continue to do her job the best she can each an every day. If the parent becomes hostile or threatening she should make her administration aware. Any instances of inappropriate behavior should be documented and reported through appropriate channels immediately.

She needs to have a one-on-one conversation with that particular parent. She can use coaching strategies by summarizing what the parent is saying. Often, when what they say is repeated back, they change their demeanor. Then, if needed, that parent should not be allowed at practice.

Solution #3
I think Coach Smith should sit down with the parent and ask for feedback in a professional manner. That way she tells the coach directly instead of making comments in front of all the other families.
Solution #4
Coach Smith should get admin involved in some way. Whether it be as support during a meeting or simply for advice. If the complaining begins to interfere with her teaching and coaching then she will definitely need the support from admin to handle the situation.
Solution #5
I believe Coach Smith should meet with the mother one on one to discuss any issues the parent has. This will either help to solve the issue completely or may not. Coach Smith will learn that not all parents will agree with you and as long as the coach finds that it doesn't continue to discourage the student the issue may get better.
Solution #6
The teacher needs to talk to the parent and have conferences with administrators. The student is not at fault so the student should not be punished
Solution #7
I would ask the parent to arrange a time for them to meet to discuss things. At this time Coach Smith could inform the parent she has been listening and doing what she can to help with what the parent is concerned about. If the school has someone who is above Coach Smith I would invite them to this meeting. Some times parents feel the need to be heard, whether it is polite or correct but once they are heard they stop.
Solution #8
A conference with the parent is necessary. If the situation does not improve, involve administration. Always stay professional and understanding.
Solution #9
She should reassure the parent that she is in charge and she has been doing this job for a while and has never had a complaint. If the parent does not let up I would get the principal or a higher authority so sit down with the parent and talk her through what and why she is doing and if the parent still wont give up I would kindly ask her to remove her daughter from the class or stop with the complaining.

I would never do this! This is wrong!