IPPN

Published: 20 October 2022

A parent comes to you with a complaint about an issue between their child and a teacher.

It has been well established that leadership is all about building relationships and good communication with all in the school community will determine the quality of those relationships. Having a professional conversation with staff is the first step in developing an understanding of how such a situation is managed. Thereafter it needs to be communicated/discussed with BoM and parent body.

Conflict occurs when communication breaks down, is poor, or not happened at all. As previously discussed, in order to create realistic expectations conversations are necessary. It will go a long way to ensure that each person understands their role and knows the procedures to follow in each case. It is always best to have these conversations when there is no issue needing resolution. The importance of having this conversation at a time when no issue exists, to ensure clarity, consistency of approach and giving staff confidence in the procedures, is essential preparation for an issue that can be complex and require difficult conversations.

“Let us find ways of working together to do what is best for your son.”
“We need to work together on this.”

It is necessary to keep using this kind of language in order to keep the focus on the child, who often gets lost in the process. Many of these issues are resolved amicably. However, there is also the danger that lack of clarity and understanding of the procedures can lead to entrenched attitudes among adults in seeking to resolve the matter. (Will be included in next week’s E-scéal)

Conversations at staff, Board and parent meetings could focus on:

• Procedures in place to manage parental complaints (Parental Complaints Procedures)
• Working through the procedures to ensure understanding
• Staff, parent and Board roles and responsibilities within those procedures
• Keeping the child at the centre of any discussion
• Understanding each other’s perspective
• Communication plan for all within the school community
• Resolving the issues at the earliest stage is vital. “Have you spoken with the class teacher?”

Ultimately, we need to keep reminding each other that parents need teachers, teachers need parents and the child needs us both.

As always, the Leadership Support Team is available to discuss issues of this kind and help in preparing you for these difficult conversations. Contact 021 4824070 or email advice@ippn.ie to arrange a call with a member of the team.