January 2012
Communication tips for dealing with low grades
When a low grade shows up…. on an interim report or report card, parents and teachers can become anxious about the problem and resort to blaming, scolding, or “grounding”- which may not result in improvement.
It might be more effective to have a discussion in which the adults recognize the child’s own disappointment and where together they can work out a plan for improvement. (It is important to remember that it is the student’s responsibility to take the lead in diagnosing the problem, suggesting solutions, and working the situation through.)
Here are some discussion questions- and some brief reasons for asking each:
“What do you think the problem is?”
(The answer may surprise you. It could be an excuse or the truth.)
“What have you already tried to improve this situation?”
(If answers sound like ‘put-ons’, note that most youngsters are slow to take action.)
“How is the rest of school going at this point?”
(A chance to relax by discussing happier situations.)
“Does the way you spend time after school affect this problem in any way?”
(Some relaxation is needed, but ‘goofing off’ instead of homework….)
“What do YOU think might be a good course of action?”
(The burden of coming up with solutions would be shouldered in part by the child.)
“What are some good points and some bad points of your plan of action?”
(Some cures are worse that the disease!)
“What can we agree are the best steps to take now to attack the problem?”
(The steps should be mutually acceptable to all concerned and must represent a firm program of change.)
“How soon (number of days!) should I call/email the teacher to see if your plan of action is indeed
correcting the situation?
(Follow-through on the agreements is the whole point; improvement must be made, not just talked about!)
When a student’s own attempts to correct a problem have not produced the hope-for results, the teacher and parent should be in direct contact in order to explore other avenues.
September 2011
Welcome Back!
After lots of summer fun it is almost time for the next school year adventure to begin! That’s exciting news! Mr. West has been busy sprucing up the school and thinking up ways to improve students’ school experiences.
I am the contact person for both transportation and virtus issues. Please call or email me and I will get back to you as soon as possible.
It is my purpose to be a resource and support for the entire school community. Please feel comfortable approaching me with your questions and/or concerns.
I look forward to working with you all over the coming year!
GETTING KIDS TO LISTEN...