Teaming Up with Teacher: Ideas for Taking a More Active Role in Your Child's Education

When students enter school for the first time, or change schools, we often find ourselves wondering “What is my role in my child’s education?”

Long before we find ourselves helping with homework or taking part in a field trips, we must choose a school that is a good fit for our child. This selection process is probably the most vital step you will take toward being a powerful partner in your child’s education.

Even if you do not have a wide array of options to choose from, or have already selected a school, taking the time to understand the philosophies and teaching methods of the school will help you make the best use of their educational offerings. Here are some questions to get you started.

The principal sets the tone for the school. Set up an interview with the principal to get a feel for the school's philosophy.

Consider asking these questions:

Do you follow a standard curriculum?

Are subjects integrated, or is the day broken up into separate subjects?

How are teachers chosen?

When do children start getting homework? How much?

How are children tested, graded, or assessed? How does the school compare to other schools in the state in terms of student test scores?

How much time and focus is placed on testing? How much on creative learning?

How and when are reading and writing taught?

How much time is spent on art? music? physical education?

What method of discipline is used?

How much interaction is there between the school and the community?

How are parents involved in the school?

How much free time for play is granted to a child throughout the day?

How often do children take field trips, or get outside to explore?

What kinds of foods are served during lunch and snack time?

Arrange a time to talk to your child's prospective teachers. A confident, knowledgeable teacher should welcome questions from parents.

Here are some questions to start with:

What do you like about teaching at this school?

What don't you like?

How do you believe children learn best?

How do you handle discipline problems?

Do you encourage questions and discussion with your students?

Do you incorporate creative learning into daily routines? What kinds?

What reading, math, language, science, etc., program do you use?

How do you deal with children who fall behind? Children who are ahead of their classmates?

Do you provide free time to think, play, or study throughout the day?

Do you keep in touch with any former students?

What are your outside interests? A challenging, stimulating teacher will probably have a variety of interests.

Once you have had a chance to explore the new school, and its teachers, you will have a much easier time helping your child excel in their new environment.