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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]Teachers probably feel more awkward. We have to be ourselves but be professional without ever really knowing how or what  we say might be interpreted due to different social and cultural norms, administration, parent reactions, etc. We have sometimes strict guidelines about what we can and cannot say to parents and I often feel I’m talking in circles because of it. I just try to be an extra professional version of myself which is more difficult in person since administrators, other teachers, parents, and children are watching our every move all day long. Email is sometimes easier because you can be more direct. It becomes legal record though so you have to choose your words wisely. Sometimes administrators or other staff want to give their input. These things just make emails an additional pressure for many teachers.

In schools you basically have to adjust your behavior to be somewhat standoffish and guarded around parents. It’s quite unfortunate and frankly uncomfortable at times. I don’t find the same issues when providing home based services. Parents watch you more closely but they also see your intentions. If you do or say something they don’t agree with it’s easy to apologize, work through it, and move on. Similar situations in schools might cause an ordeal depending on how administrators and parents handle it. Unfortunately the way situations are handled varies greatly and is often unknown. Teachers walk on eggshells sometimes and it’s really not worth it given the lack of pay and support they sometimes receive.

So next time you feel awkward, just know that the teacher probably feels that same way and it’s probably not “you” but the situation. [/quote]

OP here. I really appreciate this perspective -- it's enlightening. You are probably right. I think this is going to help me approach these interactions with less worry about the awkwardness. I need to remember this is one of dozens of such interactions these teachers have with parents each day. I'm probably reading it as personal to me when it's not. Thanks.[/quote]

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