Parents and teachers as allies help students thrive in school communities

Rebecca Koenig Interim Senior Editorial Director | EdSurge Research

In the first week of school, a parent expressed frustration on social media about not receiving timely responses from her child’s kindergarten teacher after sending multiple emails. Rather than reacting with anger, other parents responded with understanding, acknowledging the busy and challenging nature of the start of the school year for teachers. Many noted that the first week involves managing emotions, routines, and building trust with students.

The response from parents highlighted empathy toward teachers and recognition of their workload. The comments included reminders that teachers often deal with overflowing inboxes and complex classroom dynamics at the beginning of the year. One message summarized this sentiment: “We see what teachers carry.”

The article reflects on common assumptions about family involvement in schools, challenging the notion that parents are disengaged or only communicate when problems arise. The author, who has taught in various schools across the Southeast, describes how parents frequently respond to calls from educators, offer help, and share the goal of creating a positive learning environment.

Support from families can take many forms beyond traditional volunteering or fundraising. Examples include group chats to clarify rumors, patient emails acknowledging teacher workloads, translating for other families, or providing supplies. The author notes that some families may face challenges supporting their children due to work schedules or lack of experience with schools but emphasizes that both educators and families are essential parts of a supportive community.

The article suggests that recognizing parents as allies rather than opponents can improve the classroom atmosphere for students. When adults in a child’s life work together, children feel safer and more supported, which benefits their learning and development.

A classroom example is shared in which a teacher called a student’s mother to discuss behavior concerns. The mother addressed the issue directly over the phone, providing immediate support for both the teacher and her child.

The piece concludes by stating that most parents are allies to teachers and that fostering easy partnerships between families and educators benefits everyone involved.