Case
The Perturbed Parent

A parent has arrived unannounced just before school starts and is demanding an immediate meeting to discuss her son's grade in maths. Parent : I am very busy and need to talk to you now about my son's maths grade.
You : ???

Posted on: 03/02/13 | Views: 1098
Solution #1
I would calmly tell the parent that I have to start class and that we cannot meet now. I would say that I would like to meet, but that I couldn't discuss the student's grades while my students were walking in to class, to protect her son's privacy. I would give her my number at the school and e-mail address and say that I would love to make an appointment or talk over the phone at her convenience, as long as it is not during school. She could even call later that afternoon or evening.

Great suggestion!. I would thank her, for coming to the classroom, and say I apologize, but with class starting I just don't have the time. I would invite her to come back after school for a conference, she can give me a call, or she can send me an email.

I'd do the same thing. It is inappropriate for a parent to show up like that unannounced, but unfortunately, I am sure it happens. Telling the parent that you would be happy to make an appointment shows that you care and are willing to talk everything through.

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Solution #2
First and foremost, I would thank the parent for coming to the school, and I would let the parent know that I am interested in hearing everything they have to say, but I will also respectfully say that it is not an appropriate time to have a conference. I will let the parent know that we could definitely come up with a scheduled time to have a conference, giving us enough time to cover everything needed. I would also tell the parent that if they would like, they can always email me (on a daily basis if needed) with any comments, concerns, or questions.

I found this study to be very interesting.

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Solution #3
I think what you should do is tell the parent you would very much like to talk to them but explain that you are about to start class and are not allowed to talk about a student's grades in front of others. You should then give the parent your number and email to try and set up another time for a meeting. If they are only free in the morning try and make a meeting during any planning time you have in the morning where the students are in another room.
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