It’s inevitable that you’ll be called into meetings with unhappy parents or guardians from time to time. Since parents pay tuition for their child to attend your school, some feel that they can make demands on teachers, administrators, and the curriculum itself. If they don’t feel they’re getting their way, they may call for a meeting with you.
Other times, a parent meeting is warranted. There may be an issue within your school and actions must be taken to amend it. Either way, when you walk into the room, chances are it will start off tense.
Emotions can run high when parents feel their child’s well-being is at stake. Handle the situation in the right way to resolve it quickly without further escalation.
- Show empathy. Don’t go in on the offensive, putting the family on the defensive and throwing up a roadblock to progress. Let the parents know that you understand what they’re going through and their viewpoint, even if you don’t necessarily agree with it. A little empathy can go a long way in these situations—parents usually feel more at ease once they know that their complaint is heard and addressed.
- Ensure everyone is on the same page. Miscommunication can often be a culprit in conflict. Make sure that all parties discuss the same issue by laying out the situation at the onset of the meeting. Again, remain empathetic while offering any clarification necessary in regards to school policies and procedures.
- Meet with the parents or guardians first. The first meeting should remain between the parents or guardians, you, and any needed faculty or staff members—not students. Invite the parent into your office, away from any eyes and ears that don't need to see or hear the exchange. If the student’s input is required, call a second meeting to share that viewpoint.
- Stick to the points. While the parents or guardians may be emotional, it’s important that you remain calm and neutral. Stick to the facts. Be careful not to say anything to inflame the situation. Instead, focus on the fact that everyone involved wants what is best for the student.
In the rare instance that a complainant becomes verbally abusive, end the meeting immediately. State that your school has a policy demanding respect from all parties, and that you’d be happy to speak at a later date when emotions have eased.
In all situations, remember that your mission illustrates your school’s commitment to your students. Keep their best interests at the center of every decision.
Additional ISM Resources:
The Source for Academic Leadership Vol. 15 No. 8 The Importance of Positive Parent-Teacher Relationships
The Source for Advancement Vol. 16 No. 3 The Three C’s of Parent Communication
Additional ISM resources for Gold members:
I&P Vol. 39 No. 4 Conflict Resolution in the Context of Your Parent Retention and Education Plan
I&P Vol. 31 No. 6 Your Parent Education Plan: Predictability and Support
