Look for teachers who are do-ers
When parents are looking for a teacher, they should look for a doer: doing activities, cooking, field trips, science experiments, sports, art projects and other hands-on activities. These take a lot of work, but many, many dedicated teachers go the extra mile taking time and money to give their students the best. Every school has good teachers, and most schools have some who are not so hot.
The most important thing for parents to remember is to be involved. Go to the school; meet the teachers and administrators. Learn the rules about requesting a teacher for your child. Meet your child’s teacher. Visit the class when you can while class is in session. Every school I know allows this. Volunteer to help the teacher. Perhaps you have a skill or activity that would be appropriate for the class. Maybe you can assist every Tuesday.
And most importantly: work with your child. Find out the homework schedule. Look over your child’s work. Help when needed. Ask the teacher once a month if your child is keeping up.
Alan Langstraat, Selma
This story was originally published August 14, 2015 at 8:31 AM with the headline "Look for teachers who are do-ers."