So...there were plenty of mom's on here who had negative things to say about me contacting the superintendent about the issues at my kid's school. My thought is that if I, as their mother, does not stand up for them, who else will?
So when meeting with the principle I told her I was contacting the superintendent, and I did. I emailed him last night, and he called the person in charge of all of the elementary schools. When I spoke with her this morning, she was mortified at the way the school handles issues (which is what my complaint was) and is speaking with the principle and vice principle of my kids school today. I also told her the positive things, but I know from now on there will be follow through on major problems like bullying and boys grabbing my daughter's bottom - in second grade.
The principle took the statement the teacher said to my daughter as so out of line that she had already contacted the superintendents office before I had a chance to. While I am not being told what actions will be taken, he is in trouble for speaking to her the way he did.
My complaint to the super was NOT because there was no Valentine's party...but the fact that there is no follow through from the school. I leave there feeling like action will be taken, and find out at the end of the day that nothing was done.
So why would you not go higher up if you felt your kids were not being protected in school? We have to rely on the teachers and staff to keep our kids safe and protected during the day.
ETA: My daughter also started a new class this morning. The lady I spoke to who is in charge of all elementary schools recommended it, but we had already made the move.
She LOVES her new class. I stopped in at lunch and I haven't seen her smile so big this whole year! I am SO glad we made the right move for her.
I agree. I expect action when I request action. I don't make willy nilly complaints or request things out of line. You did the right thing.
I didn't read your previous post until just now. Yep. I would have done the same thing. I've taught elementary and I can't see treating a child (especially a third grader) so poorly. I know it wasn't the first offense, but thankfully it was the last. When someone says they are going to do something, then I expect it to happen. Good job, Mama Bear!
I am so glad you stuck up for your daughter. Some parents would not do that. We try to teach our children to respect others in athority and then you get a teacher that sounds like does not even respect her it's hard for them to learn. And I am sure she did not understand why she was being treated like that. I have a 3rd grader and if something happens with him I go to the teacher then the principle. Luckly I have never had to go any further than that. I am glad you were able to get her out of that environment! You go momma!!!!!!!!!!!
Glad that everything got worked out! It really sounds like it was for the best and it's great that your daughter is now happy at school again :) Kids should always have positive experiences at school, especially with teachers.
I hope she really likes her new class, that's a tough experience to go through.
I don't hesitate to go to the superintendent. In fact, not long ago my GD's teacher sent home a note that was extremely rude. I posted the note on this site and asked for comments.
Anyway, I sent my letter regarding the note to the teacher, principal and the superintendent. The truth of the matter is, the teachers could care less what you tell the principal and the principal could care less about whatever you're talking about UNLESS you go over the principal's head. How is the superintendent going to know how the principals are performing if we don't provide him/her with information? When I get angry with the school, and especially when I feel necessary to threaten legal action, I want them to know I am not playing and I am putting EVERYONE on notice now - this is your one and only warning type thing.
You did the right thing, IMO.
I feel sorry for everyone else who has to put up with her old teacher. Hopefully, other parents will be inspired and take action, if he is truly as offensive as he sounds.
I would have never believed anyone that told me that the teacher decided if the kids had a valentines party or not. I always assumed it was up to the homeroom parent and the other parents. That is just wrong for a teacher to decide the kids don't get to have a holiday party. Even if they were the most horrible class in the whole district they should get to do the same things every school does.
I wonder if this teacher is a Witness. My sister is and she won't even take a sewing contract for a holiday outfit or dress because she says it would be wrong. That is her choice and the people can choose a different seamstress but in this case the person would be influencing a whole section of a public school.
How wonderful for you to have moved her.
Hi, Mom:
I am so proud of you.
You did the right thing.
Water rolls downhill.
Many people in today's world
are afraid to stand up and speak
their concerns to the people who can
do something about it.
If your child is misbehaving in school,
are the teachers going to talk to each other
about the problem? No, they are going to
call you because you can do something about it.
When people attack you for doing what's right, they
are on the "compass of shame." (www.iirp.edu)
Good job!
I'm proud of you.
D.
