Case
Parents Divorcing

You are an elementary teacher, and Wesley Midstuck is one of your students. Wesley's parents are in the midst of a divorce and custody is an issue. You correspond with both parents regularly, however, it seems that their main concern is "digging up dirt" on each other. An example, Wesley came from Dad's on a cool fall day recently, and Mom emailed to see whether or not he had a jacket. How would you handle this situation?

Posted on: 03/02/13 | Views: 1343
Solution #1
Top Solution
This can be a difficult situation. I would respond to the parent answering the question, but then let them know that I do not feel comfortable answering these types of questions. I would say that I am on the side of the student and only want what is best for Wesley. I would also say that I would like to keep this out of the classroom, so that he has a place to go and get away from the situation. I would end it by say that I hope I did not upset the person and remind them that they can come to me about any other situations.

This is a great solution and I would use this in my classroom.

Great suggestion on how to handle this tricky situation. The parents must grow up a bit and put more concern into their child.

I think this is a great way to handle the situation.

Keeping this as far as possible from the child and your classroom is important. Great suggestion!

I dont this that this is the right way to go. I think thaty this would upset the parent more than necessary.

I agree with this solution.

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Solution #2
If I were in this situation, I would answer the question listed above honestly because I do not see the harm in the parent caring about their child's well being. If the question were something to incriminate the other parent or outrageous I would respond by stating I do not feel comfortable releasing that type of information about the child.

I think that as a teacher, it is not our place to get involved.

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Solution #3
I think it is important to remember that often times it is not about "digging up dirt". Many times parents, especially mothers are terrified by their children being out of their care so frequently. Fear comes through as anger for a lot of people. With this in mind, it is important that you reassure the inquiring parent that their child is fine. When you approach parents with an understanding and reassuring attitude their anger often begins to dissipate.

I think that this is exactly what I would do in this situation. I was separated from my daughters father when she was little. The teachers that just simply reassured me that my child was safe and had what she needed were my favorite and set me at ease.

I agree with this solution.

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Solution #4
These situations are SO difficult. I can relate to this issue with a step-son; his mom has text wondering if he was fed the days we had him. It is important to not take sides, as the students' teacher. When another parent asks questions that are not related to the students' well-being or learning, I would simply ignore the situation. After-all, you have many other students and can not be responsible for their negativity being thrown back and forth.

I agree with this case study. I will utilize this information once I become a teacher.

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