One of the most frustrating scenarios for a parent is when they are blindsided by a poor grade or a sudden behavioral issue. A perceived lack of communication often stems from a mismatch in expectations—the school might assume parents are checking an online portal daily, while the parent expects a personal email for anything serious. If you feel you aren’t getting enough information, start by clarifying the communication protocol: ask the teacher, “What is your preferred method and frequency for sharing updates, especially regarding missing work or academic concerns?”
If you’ve clarified the expectations and communication is still lacking, it’s time to gently but firmly advocate for more proactive updates. Explain why the communication is so important to your child’s success, highlighting the difficulty of intervening when a problem isn’t known until the last minute. If a teacher remains unresponsive, you may need to escalate the concern to an administrator or guidance counselor. Frame the issue not as a complaint about the teacher, but as a request for better support in monitoring your child’s progress, which is a shared responsibility.
Navigating these challenges can feel overwhelming, but remember, you’re not alone. Open communication, proactive research, and collaboration with school staff are your best tools in ensuring your child has a positive and productive school experience. If you have questions, or need help navigating the school system for your child be sure to contact us here at Their F1RST Teacher.
Dr. Nakiesha Sinclair
Executive Director
Their FIRST Teacher