Ask an Expert: Judy Goddess
Using California School Law To Advocate For Your Kids

KEEPING IN TOUCH WITH YOUR SCHOOL

I am really concerned about how my son is doing in school. Can I demand that his teacher call me every day? My hours make it impossible for me to visit the school.

There may be better ways to establish lines of communication concerning your son's progress. Let the teacher know your concerns; explain that you work during the school day, and ask if he has any suggestions as to how the two of you might keep in touch. Some teachers are willing to meet with parents at a more convenient time; others send home a daily report — at least until the child's work has improved. Schools also use e-mail and voice mail for communicating with parents. Your son's teacher may suggest one or more of these options or have other suggestions. Teachers are usually willing to accommodate a parent's request for more frequent communication.

I know it is difficult to take time off work, but it helps if you can visit the school during the first week of classes to introduce yourself to the teacher, principal, and counselor (if there is one). Explain that your working hours don't allow you to attend meetings, but that you want to be immediately informed when your child does something exceptional — either good or bad. Ask for copies of the school rules, the school's expectations for students, and an outline of the curriculum. Be sure to take advantage of the various back-to-school nights, open houses, and parent-teacher conferences to enhance communication between you and your son's teacher, and to monitor your child's progress throughout the year.

Let your son know that you've met with his teacher and the principal, and that you will all be working together to ensure that he gets a good education. Ask about his concerns — in the class and generally — and what he feels would make things better for him at school

TOP OF PAGE | BACK TO ARCHIVE INDEX