Sunday 9 March 2014

Parent apathy needs to end

One of the constant struggles over the past 3 years has been to get parents involved in their children's learning journey. At the parent-teacher evening we had a few weeks ago I had 5 out of 35 Year 11 & 12 parents see me. I do understand there are certain circumstances that prevent people from making it to this evening, but such a low turnout is extremely disappointing. It is my belief that as a parent i would like to know what is going on in my childs education, speak to the teachers, and know that the money I'm investing at these school will benefit my child. Then there is also making that communication channels, and support networks, open between everyone.

Students and teachers can have a strong relationship, but it is incomplete without the strong supportive relationship at home. The students that are incredibly apathetic towards school, taking part or setting goals; they are the students whom I have never even seen a parent around or met them. Positive role models, supportive networks and good communication are essential elements in helping teenagers be successful at school.

My hope is that every possible parent can come into school, see and meet their child's teachers. Share the support and learning journey that these kids so desperately require.

Where have I been?

All good intentions with blogging quickly disappeared as the the school year started at the end of January. Within the first few days I was dealing with various students issues and numerous challenges that would confront me in the first month. I have had a number of topics that I have wanted to write about, discus and criticize. Sometimes, however, you need to bite your tongue and rather not say anything. There are so many things to actually praise and be thankful for, and this is where the focus should be.

My intention was to blog weekly, but I realise with the way my life is currently that, that will not happen. Besides teaching, spending hours each night doing preparation, there is my own family to spend time with and now I have started studying. Blog post will more than likely be very inconsistent, but i hope that when I do get  chance I manage to share something that someone might find valuable.