Thursday, June 6, 2013

Parent Responsibilities and Expectations

In the past couple weeks two commentaries were printed in the Star Tribune regarding Parent Portal and more important - the role and responsibility of the parent.

The first was by Beth Ewen May 31, 2013 "Dropping out of the Minneapolis 'Parent Portal'

The second listed as Counterpoint was by Seth Kirk and titled "Tune in to the Minneapolis 'Parent Portal."

Both are available http://www.startribune.com/local/

Both have great points (in my opinion) and should be reviewed by all families.  I do not believe these to be opposites.  Each encourages responsibility and communication.  Both indicate an interest in the efforts being student centered.  What we enforce for a five-year old is different than what we expect of a 15-year old.

The first line of communication for each was parent to child.  Families that talk have more opportunities to determine the level of difficulties or problems.  Many times that talk is the parent talking a eyes rolling of young person but that is communication.  Yes, many teenagers do not roll their eyes at their parents or elders.

The important issues are ones of communication and getting the job done.  Who is responsible for the work and what are the lessons to be learned? What are the gradual steps necessary to learn responsibility and time management?

The link between the school and home must be strong and supportive.  The school and home share a very precious investment in the future of this community.  The child does not need to be a problem in the middle.  Communication is important and some are more comfortable with one form as compared to another.  The important part is to communicate and maintain an ability to hear and feel.

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