Q: The parents of a student in my class are angry because of the grade their child received. How can I defuse the situation?
A: Parents will confront you throughout your career, and there is no formula for handling them. Each person and situation is different. However, when it comes to grades and grading practices, there are some strategies you can employ.
Be proactive. Present your grading policy and scale to parents at the beginning of the school year. For those parents who fail to attend back-to-school activities, send the policy home and require a signature be returned for your records. Also, be sure to post the policy in the classroom and, if you have one, on the class website.
Collect data. Require your students to have graded quizzes, tests and major projects initialed or signed by a parent. Make a copy of these documents for your records before allowing students to keep them.
Report regularly. Most teachers have grade-book software that makes updates a breeze. Print grade reports on a regular schedule for parents, and require their signatures in return.
Follow up. Inevitably, more than one student will fail to return a signed quiz, test or grade report. Be sure to call parents when this occurs. Work with parents to determine how similar situations should be handled in the future.
Consult your administrator. Make your principal aware of students who are falling short of your expectations. The best way to get an administrator in your corner is to inform him or her of your efforts with students and parents.
Admittedly, a regimen like the one outlined here can be a lot of work. But once students and parents become accustomed to the structure, you’ll find that communication about grades will become a more positive experience for you and for them.
If this advice comes too late for your work with a particular parent this year, immediately consult your administrator. Once you’ve solicited his or her help to appease the angry parents, consider designing a plan to prevent similar episodes. You’ll be grateful you did!