Been There

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Home : 2004 : December : 11

Been There
By Lucia

Your situation sounds exactly like the one I recently had with a 6th grade student of mine. He does his own thing, hands in assignments when he pleases (which I refuse to accept), he is a complete "air head" and it's very
obvious his mother writes his book reports for him.
The father came into my classroom and threatened me with violence "if you refuse to accept his book report." I chose not to accept it because it was late. I refuse to make special accomodations and put this boy on an Individualized Education Plan because he can't get his lazy butt in gear.
I directed his father to the office and my

principal supported me 150% in addition to reminding the parent that he is not to step into any teacher's classroom (school rule) without checking into the office. Then, if a conference is desired, make an appointment with the teacher where the administrator is always present.

I'm thrilled you have your administrator's support. That's the key. As Kerry said, you have to "stick to your guns" and also - never be intimidated. Some parents live to make a teacher's life hell because they are trouble-makers.

Once "Junior" moves on to the REAL world, he'll be on America's Most Wanted or asking, "Want fries with that?"

Do not give into these parents. Maintain your high standards, even for "Junior." If they are so concerned about his education, they should home school him (if they can stand it).

I don't see "individuality." I see laziness and arrogance. With our luck, he'll be the next president of the United States.

Hang in there. You have nothing to worry about because you're not doing anything wrong. Trust me, people always see through these types of parents. They're the ones really hurting their kids. I'd love to see this kid in the work place one day pulling this nonsense with his boss.

Hugs,