Kim Frencken: Teaching is a group effort- five suggestions for success

Teaching is a group effort. It isn't a singular accomplishment. It takes teachers, administrators, support staff, and parents working together to educate each child.

I think I've said it once or twice... or a hundred and fifty times. Teachers need support. Teachers need the support of administrators and parents. Nothing is more damaging to classroom management than to have an atmosphere of believing everything a child says and nothing that a teacher says. When the adult is viewed as guilty until they can prove their innocence, respect flies right out the window.

First, parents need to remember the things they said and did as a child. They weren't perfect. No one is perfect. Everyone makes mistakes. Sometimes those trips down memory lane will cause you to cringe in shame, but maybe it will make you wake up and realize that the teacher is telling the truth. Maybe you'll realize that your child is human. Growing up. Making mistakes. Learning.

Second, parents, please deal with the situation appropriately. Don't waste time defending your child or making up excuses. Cooperate with the teacher on a suitable consequence. Make this a learning experience. Not a battle that everyone loses.

Thirdly, administrators...be brave. Don't let parents scare you. Support your teachers. Speak clearly, kindly, but firmly. Don't try to be the good guy. It isn't in your job description to be best buds with the parents. Do your job. Don't throw the teacher under the bus.

Fourth, teachers present a clear and reasonable strategy at the beginning of the school year. Not after the fact. Let everyone know, up front, your expectations. And your consequences. Then be consistent and fair. Develop a routine of contacting parents on a regular basis. With good news. And bad. Invite parents/guardians to be a part of your classroom. I think they're calling it transparency these days.

And let's not forget the support staff. Please don't undermine the teacher. If a child is receiving a punishment, don't try to coddle them or make them feel like they were right and the teacher was an old meany for making them walk laps or make a phone call home. Yes, kids need someone that will listen to them, but they also have to understand that misbehaviors have consequences.

(For more of Kim Frencken's writing, check out her blog, Chocolate For the Teacher.)