DS's word against teacher's - WWYD?

[Anonymous]

Can you screen shoot the "Z" before the deadlines with a date so you can show admin what is going on? You'll need proof so they believe you.

[Anonymous]

Since you are new to the school system, I think you need to schedule a time to talk to the teacher about how to understand the Zs and track the assignments better.

It is not appropriate to go to admin at this point.

[Anonymous]

I think you're misunderstanding the Z thing as well. Z is probably a placeholder before the assignment is due as it is technically not worth anything UNTIL it's due. He doesn't have Z's, they're just there until a grade is.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I think you're misunderstanding the Z thing as well. Z is probably a placeholder before the assignment is due as it is technically not worth anything UNTIL it's due. He doesn't have Z's, they're just there until a grade is.

exactly. this is another way to explain the same thing that I think a couple others already did. (I was one PP who tried earlier.) In the beginning of the year, we were given a packet of papers, which included a detailed explanation of the grading system. OP, I'm sure your school can give you that, and you can go over it with your child, so you both are clear on how things work.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I think you're misunderstanding the Z thing as well. Z is probably a placeholder before the assignment is due as it is technically not worth anything UNTIL it's due. He doesn't have Z's, they're just there until a grade is.

exactly. this is another way to explain the same thing that I think a couple others already did. (I was one PP who tried earlier.) In the beginning of the year, we were given a packet of papers, which included a detailed explanation of the grading system. OP, I'm sure your school can give you that, and you can go over it with your child, so you both are clear on how things work.

I agree with this previous poster & would like to add on to their post.

OP, besides requesting the packet again, you can always make an appointment with your child's guidance counselor.
They can go over anything that you have questions or concerns about or anything you just need more information on, especially with your son having some challenges, the guidance counselors are so well informed on different programs that may benefit your son, that you may not be aware of.

I think this might be the better option for you to seek out first, rather than going straight to the principal or upper administration, as the guidance counselors can work as a sort of "middle man" between you & the teacher. Plus, guidance counselors are VERY well versed on how to approach each teacher individually (especially the more difficult ones... with kid gloves) so you don't come across as trying to get the teacher in trouble & then teacher won't automatically become defensive (as that gets everyone nowhere). A neutral third party is best when emotions are heightened & accusations might possibly be made.

My DD was in 6th grade last year & I understand how overwhelming it all can be, the guidance counselor can be your greatest resource in helping your child succeed. If you're feeling frustrated, stuck, confused or unheard I'd reach out to them first, as they have a special way of resolving most issues without having to get the principal even involved.

Good luck Mom!

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I think you're misunderstanding the Z thing as well. Z is probably a placeholder before the assignment is due as it is technically not worth anything UNTIL it's due. He doesn't have Z's, they're just there until a grade is.

exactly. this is another way to explain the same thing that I think a couple others already did. (I was one PP who tried earlier.) In the beginning of the year, we were given a packet of papers, which included a detailed explanation of the grading system. OP, I'm sure your school can give you that, and you can go over it with your child, so you both are clear on how things work.

I agree with this previous poster & would like to add on to their post.

OP, besides requesting the packet again, you can always make an appointment with your child's guidance counselor.
They can go over anything that you have questions or concerns about or anything you just need more information on, especially with your son having some challenges, the guidance counselors are so well informed on different programs that may benefit your son, that you may not be aware of.

I think this might be the better option for you to seek out first, rather than going straight to the principal or upper administration, as the guidance counselors can work as a sort of "middle man" between you & the teacher. Plus, guidance counselors are VERY well versed on how to approach each teacher individually (especially the more difficult ones... with kid gloves) so you don't come across as trying to get the teacher in trouble & then teacher won't automatically become defensive (as that gets everyone nowhere). A neutral third party is best when emotions are heightened & accusations might possibly be made.

My DD was in 6th grade last year & I understand how overwhelming it all can be, the guidance counselor can be your greatest resource in helping your child succeed. If you're feeling frustrated, stuck, confused or unheard I'd reach out to them first, as they have a special way of resolving most issues without having to get the principal even involved.

Good luck Mom!

+1 This!

Best answer I've seen thus far... start with the guidance counselor.
As the previous poster said, the guidance counselors know of programs & courses that could benefit your son & the challenges that he experiences. We as parents don't always know of them or arent always made aware, as they are reserved for kids with those challenges only. I'd definitely reach out to the guidance counselor & they can guide you from there.