• Tips for Talking to Toomer Teachers

    We asked teachers some of the best ways to approach conversations regarding concerns you might have. Here is what they said:

    1. Schedule a Meeting

    • Why: Teachers are busy during the school day and may not have time to address concerns on the spot (for instance, at drop-off or pick-up). Scheduling a meeting shows respect for their time and ensures they can give you their full attention.  Also, teachers prefer that concerns be raised in one-on-one settings, like emails or scheduled meetings, rather than in front of other parents or students.

    • Toomer Tip: Request a meeting via email or through Class Dojo, specifying what you’d like to discuss so the teacher can prepare (examples of email templates are below). Don’t have Class Dojo? Install the app and ask your child’s teacher for the class “code.” 

    2. Start with a Positive Approach

    • Why: Starting with positive feedback about the teacher or something your child enjoys in class sets a collaborative tone. Teachers appreciate when parents acknowledge their efforts before diving into concerns.

    • Toomer Tip: Mention specific things you’ve noticed that are going well, then transition into your concern.

    3. Be Specific and Solution-Oriented

    • Why: It’s easier for teachers to address concerns when parents are clear and specific about the issue. Vague or general complaints can be harder to address and solve.

    • Toomer Tip: Come with specific examples or observations and ask for advice on how to solve the problem together. Offering suggestions for solutions is helpful, but also be open to the teacher’s perspective and ideas FIRST. This shows respect for their professional expertise.

    4. Stay Calm and Respectful

    • Why: Teachers are more receptive when concerns are raised calmly and respectfully. Getting emotional or confrontational can make the conversation less productive.

    • Toomer Tip: Approach the conversation with an open mind, assuming that the teacher wants the best for your child and has expertise you may not, even if you don’t always agree with their methods.

    5. Ask for the Teacher’s Perspective/Professional Opinion 

    • Why: Teachers have insights into your child’s behavior and performance in the classroom that may differ from what you see at home. Understanding their perspective can provide important context for your concerns.

    • Toomer Tip: After raising your concern, ask, “What have you noticed in class?” or “What’s your perspective on this situation?” Remember, they are professionals with extensive training in this area.

    6. Keep the Focus on Your Child

    • Why: Teachers want to ensure that the conversation is about your child’s success and well-being, not a critique of the teacher’s abilities or the school. Keeping the focus on what’s best for your child helps maintain a productive dialogue.

    • Toomer Tip: Frame your concerns in terms of how they affect your child’s learning or emotional well-being, rather than as a complaint about the teacher’s methods or a school policy they may not have any control over.

    7. Follow Up Constructively

    • Why: A follow-up conversation shows that you’re committed to the partnership with the teacher and care about the outcomes for your child.

    • Toomer Tip: After the initial conversation, thank the teacher and check in a few weeks later to see how things are progressing. This may be an email, a Class Dojo message or a text.

    8. Respect Boundaries and Procedures

    • Why: Teachers appreciate when parents follow school procedures and respect their professional boundaries, particularly around sensitive issues. Addressing concerns within the appropriate channels ensures smoother communication.

    • Toomer Tip: If the concern is broader or involves school policies, consider involving Principal Brown, but always communicate with the teacher first.

     

    Examples of a Meeting Request Email

    To your child’s Teacher:

    Subject: Concern Regarding [Child’s Name] - Request for a Meeting

    Dear [Teacher’s Name],

    I hope this message finds you well. I am [Your Full Name], [Child’s Name]’s [parent/guardian], and I am reaching out to discuss a concern I have regarding [Child’s Name] in [his/her/their] [grade/class].

    I have noticed [briefly describe the concern—e.g., “that [Child’s Name] seems to be struggling with reading comprehension” or “that [Child’s Name] has mentioned feeling anxious about certain classroom activities”]. I am hoping to understand better how [he/she/they] is doing in class from your perspective and how we might be able to support [him/her/them] together.

    Could we schedule a time to meet or speak over the phone to discuss this in more detail? I am available [suggest a few dates and times that work for you] but am flexible if another time is more convenient for you.

    Thank you very much for your attention to this matter and any help you could provide. I appreciate your dedication and all you do for Toomer students and I look forward to working together to ensure [Child’s Name] has a positive and successful experience in your class.

    Sincerely,

    [Your Full Name]
    [Your Phone Number]
    [Your Email Address]