Episode 120 of Leaning into Leadership features Lisa Parry coaching us, as leaders, on how to face the difficult conversations with parents. This includes three driving questions for any meeting, a focus on not taking it personal, and how to avoid confirmation bias. That, plus your #PepTalk on this week’s show. MORE EPISODES
Feeling bitter? Write it. Then, rewrite it.
TL;DR: A teacher faced parental anger over a plagiarism incident and initially responded by writing it out feeling bitter and sarcastic. A colleague suggested rewriting the piece to focus on understanding parents’ frustrations and the education system’s challenges. Lesson learned: Channel bitterness into productive reflection, seek accountability from trusted colleagues, and aim for thoughtful, compassionate communication. Feeling Bitter? About midway … Read More
Episode 68: When Calling Parents isn’t Your Calling with Crystal Frommert
If you ask an educator, “What’s your favorite part of your job?” It is highly unlikely they will say, “Communicating with parents.” But the reality is, educators have to do it. Crystal Frommert literally wrote the book on this topic and stopped by the show to share her expertise and tips for parent communication. That, plus a #PepTalk and more … Read More
Parent Communication
TL;DR: There are various ways to communicate with parents: set expectations and use technology. Set expectations and parameters around response times. Tip: Have positive interactions with parents. There are various ways parent communication can be enhanced through technology: Remind, FlipGrid, email, and Google Voice. Jessica joined Rae on the Daily Drop In to chat about Parent Communication Refresh. Click here … Read More
Middle School Parents and Guardians Want to Hear from You!
TL;DR: Middle school students aren’t great communicators with their parents. As teachers, we have to facilitate that communication by providing adults at home with information without overwhelming them. Let’s make that communication positive! Developmentally, we know middle school students, particularly older middle school students, are beginning to explore who they are apart from the adults with whom they live. While … Read More
