All kinds of parents show up at conferences. The lonely-just-need-someone-to-talk-to parent. The I-can't-wait-to-tell-you-what-you-are-doing-wrong parent. Helicopter parents. Kind parents. Curious parents. Concerned parents. Involved parents.
But, there is one type that won't show up. No matter what incentives are offered or how many phone calls made, or texts, emails, or notes sent. They won't show. I'll just say what we're all thinking.... they didn't have time to change out of their pajamas and drive to school to talk about their child's progress. Harsh? Probably. Yes. I'm not talking about the single parent that wants to be there, but can't get time off work to be there. That parent calls or send an email or a note. They communicate. I'm talking about the ones that don't take any interest in their child's education.
And these are the kids that need their parents there the most. These kids tell you right up 'til the last minute that their mom or dad will be there. Then they make excuses trying to explain why their parent didn't show up. Their excuses sound flimsy, even to their own ears. We smile and say that's okay, but inside we both know it isn't.
Personally, I'm fuming. I'm surprised smoke isn't coming out my ears. How can an adult put a child, of any age, in such a position? It isn't fair. Every child should have an adult that cares about their progress in life. An adult that takes a minute or two of their time and invests it in their child. Every child. And since we can't change the hearts of those who are too self-absorbed to give their kids a chance we'll keep doing what we do, hoping for the best, and giving those kids a double portion of our time and love.
(For more of Kim Frencken's writing, check out her blog, Chocolate For the Teacher.)
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