5 Ways to be Considerate of the Teacher’s Time

 

Fostering a relationship with your child’s teacher is an important part of the home-school connection, but keep in mind that teachers live busy lives and often find their time stretched thin. Help them out by following these ideas:

 

1. Make an appointment to talk. If you have something you want to discuss, don’t try to corner the teacher before or after school in the hall. Set up a meeting and let her know what the issue is in advance.

2. Don’t interrupt teaching time. Unless it’s an emergency, don’t call to chat with a teacher when class is in session.

3. For less urgent matters, send a note or e-mail. If you want to update the teacher on a family matter or ask a specific question about schoolwork, writing an e-mail or note is a great way to communicate.

4. Bring a list of questions to conferences. Keep your meetings with the teacher focused and on-track by creating an agenda of things you want to cover.

5. Say “Thanks!” Don’t forget to thank your child’s teacher for all he/she does. Send a note after report cards or an e-mail when your child raves about a project to let the teacher know he is appreciated.