Sarah SwansonJune 10 at 8:12amMy son attends a local elementary school. Yesterday when I pick him up I was greeted by one of his teachers as my child entered my car. She began to talk to me about my child's behavior and issues there have been in her class for awhile. She was beyond rude and disrespectful to me and was doing all of this in front of my child who began to cry in the back seat. I am absolutely appalled by her actions and on top of it, it is the first time I'm hearing of any problems he has had at school. She has never taken the time to email or call me but yet yell at me in front of my child. Who would I talk to about this problem? I am not a happy mama

LikeLike · · Share← Traci Kaldestad, Erin Angus-Snapka, Geno Cuevas and 2 others

like this.←← RemoveLisa Reed Principal, then Super's office if needed.June 10

at 8:18am · Like · 7←← RemoveAmanda Gram I would talk to her first privately and then

go to the principleJune 10 at 8:26am · Like · 7←← RemoveMichelle Gundersen I would ask for a conference and

express that you felt she was rude, and could have handled it differently. None of us want our children to behave badly but they do sometimes and I know I would rather be told to help correct it than let it go.June 10 at 8:29am · Like · 5

←← RemoveJennifer Collins Brittingham Principle. Which school?

June 10 at 8:30am · Like←← RemoveLisa Reed Curbside in front of the child was a no-no. Email

or call would have been more appropriate.June 10 at 8:30am · Like · 1←← RemoveSandy Meyer I'd call a meeting with the principle and

superintendent along with the teacher!June 10 at 8:33am · Like · 4←← RemoveErin Wahoo G The appropriate course would be to talk

with the teacher first. Then you go to the principal.June 10 at 8:42am · Like · 8

←

← RemoveSarah Swanson Thank you for your replies. I am going to go talk with the principal. If she would of contacted me when the behavior started the problem would of been fixed long ago. The fact she let it go on and then waits until the last week of school to talk to me and treat me like a dog makes me wonder how she treats our children!June 10 at 8:57am · Like · 8

←← RemoveBetty Magana Armenta How awful! I'm sorry but why did

she wait till the very last to tell u that how unprofessional of her!!!!June 10 at 9:00am · Like

←← RemoveEriks Skujins I'd confront the teacher directly. If they don't

apologize, then go up the ladder.June 10 at 9:07am · Like · 1←← RemoveSummer Hopkins McConnell Definitely talk with the

principal and teacher about it. It is not cool when a teacher springs something negative on you right at pick up time when there are children around (yours and other peoples) and other parents around also.June 10 at 9:10am · Like

←← RemoveCarol Reed Sarah i had same problems with Sigi ( your

son goes to to ? ) we even had one teacher that came to our home one time ( no joke) and this all falls on the heels of the teachers going to a board meeting saying they feel bullied so i guess they are just paying it forward....Eriks these teachers dont care and Summer the principal wont do anything, go straight to Ken Hoover's office.... my oldest got in trouble yesterday to i had to go to the school because he was standing in the back of the class acting like Santa Clause, i know this behavior has went on and off all year but 5 days before school is out they decide to start doling out punishment? thats MSDJune 10 at 9:31am · Like · 1

←← RemoveMegan Hofmann Gieger Yes, you should confront the

teacher and follow the chain from there principal, Dr. Hoover, etc.). But let's not jump over "all" teachers. Yes, there may be a few bad apples, but to lump them all together is unfair. We have had nothing but outstanding teachers at CLE, truly amazing. The work that teachers do is so under valued and so many times unappreciated. So many people these days treat teachers like daycare workers. They are there to teach, not discipline children. I wouldn't want a teacher to have to deal with constant discipline issues during the day and take time away from what they are paid to do and that is teach. Discipline is the parents responsibilities. I do agree that she should have contacted you directly and privately and what happened seems totally unprofessional. But again, let's not turn this into a rant fest against our teachers.June 10 at 9:46am · Like · 14

←← RemoveTeresa Willard The teacher is supposed to be nurturing

amongst other things. I wouldn't make my kid go back. I would find another option, actually that iis what I did. SVEC!June 10 at 9:49am · Like

←← RemoveSarah Swanson I don't want to say his school because we

love it there. And I'm not saying teachers are bad etc. Discipline is something I need to handle but can't if I don't know about a problem. Our children deserve respect just like our teachers do. These children are learning how to be adults someday and I do my part at home and would hope they do their part while in a classroom.June 10 at 9:50am · Like · 6

←← RemoveBridget Morrison If you feel that you must go to the

principal first-then do... But if you can go to the teacher first, I think you would be happiest with the outcome. I know, from experience, that the last week of school can be physically and emotionally draining/challenging for all teachers. My guess is that your child's teacher was regretting what happened shortly thereafter- we are human and make mistakes just like everyone else. If you have had an otherwise good experience with this teacher- give them the opportunity to make it rightJune 10 at 10:08am · Like · 14

←← RemoveAmanda Gram I'm sure most teachers are exhausted by

now. Kiddos can be a handful. I can cleanly remember when I was told my daughter was "acting up" in class and thinking no way! As she's gotten older and I've spent more time IN the class it's clear some kids push more then others. Next year I would send in emails and keep those lines of communication open. My kids all know momma is checking in on them even if I don't go into the school. At the end of the days teachers are human and have human responded. Kids are kids and that's totally AOK. We cannot expect every teacher to be perfect and respond perfectly 24-7. We all have slips, that's why I say talking to her first makes the most sense. Or having a meetings with her and the principle. Good luck to you!! :-)) and I hope it all goes well.June 10 at 10:15am · Like · 3

←← RemoveMelinda Wilson Ulle Normally I'm all for chain of

command but this was way over the line. It's never ok to publicly dress someone down. Go to the principal and address it. Honestly kudos for not throwing it back at her right then, I'm not sure I could have restrained myselfJune 10 at 11:11am · Like · 2

←← RemoveDerek Witt I understand that there could be a different

approach to speaking to you on this, and I do not see anything wrong with you speaking to her about this, BUT COME ON... She didn't slap you or anything like that. She probably has about 10 million things going on to finish school year (Testing, Grading, getting things ready for next year, and oh yeah teaching 25 plus students daily) and she probably just found a moment where she could let you know some of the things that you could

address with you face to face. Could she of handled it better, I am guessing probably yes, but the thing that seems to be weird with these responses is the fact that people are sooooo quick to crucify a teacher and yet not many of the responses are about the actual content of what was said. I am guessing that one reason students cry in back seat on this is because they know they are in the wrong, and mom or dad getting told about it means they might have to answer for it. NOT because they were told in front of them. I have a son going into H.S. and a daughter going into Kindergarten next year and if their teachers find that they need to let me know a problem when they saw me I do not feel that is a problem. If she screamed at you, or assaulted you then it is a different story, but simply letting you know what was happening doesn't seem to be a cause for going to superintendent. As a matter of fact some of our schools main problems is because each time a parent doesn't like something they run to principle or superintendent and they spend more time trying to be politically correct and it takes away time they could be improving the school. If kids and parents are assaulted physically or verbally then something needs to be addressed, if it is simply your feelings got hurt because you were told that little Johnny or Suzie were out of line and you were told so, we should take information and correct it, not get mad at messenger for telling us so.June 10 at 11:24am · Like · 15

←← RemoveGeno Cuevas Tell Debra kolrudJune 10 at 11:32am · Like←← RemoveLisa Reed No they don't work "for" us, but they SHOULD

work "with" us. Many of them give the impression (for whatever reason/excuse) that they don't give a hoot. Part of their job that they are paid for is to be part of the team. If they can't communicate effectively with parents, perhaps they should find a new line of work.June 10 at 12:04pm · Like · 2

←← RemoveDerek Witt Lisa it seems like in this case she was trying to

communicate but maybe some feel if they dont like how or what teacher is saying then it is teachers fault. Maybe if we listen more and judge less we will find out teachers try to communicate a lot but if parents dont like the message they would rather jump on its teachers fault bandwagon. These teachers are teachers not here to coddle you or your feelings. I hear teachers dont work with me.. code for they wont cave into my demands or do it my way.. if your asking for help you are at the teachers choice on how that help comes. If you dont like how they give EXTRA timw and help and commuication maybe you jave unrealistic expectationsJune 10 at 12:13pm · Edited · Like · 5

←← RemoveSarah Swanson @ Derek she didn't slap me but she was

beyond rude and that is unacceptable. I have two kids and in 7 months pregnant and I work. I'm not going to use that as any kind of excuse ever

and her being over worked and the end of a school year should give her the right to act out of line. I simply posted my question to see if my reaction and way to handle it was the same as other parents.June 10 at 12:14pm · Like · 2

←← RemoveLisa Reed Curbside, in front of the child in question is a

real poor decision on the part of the teacher. It takes away the child's voice and can totally kill their self-esteem. If a teacher bum rushed me at my car and made my child cry, I would have let her know right then and there. They have discipline plans in place at all Monroe schools and this teacher did not follow protocol.June 10 at 12:16pm · Like · 3

←← RemoveDerek Witt I would be interested in what is over the top

rude.. Giving you the information is not rude, letting you know in front of your child maybe could have found different place possibly but still not in calling in principle not any more out of line than airing gripes on public forum. So unless there is more to it than that speaking your thouggts to her is acceptable but going over her head just to get her in trouble seems to me to be petty and very insecureJune 10 at 12:18pm · Like · 5

←← RemoveLisa Reed For whatever it's worth, when my child had a

behavior issue in class, the teacher had us come into school and specifically requested we NOT bring our child. There is parent/teacher talk, and there is parent/child/teacher talk.June 10 at 12:18pm · Like

←← RemoveAmanda Gram I'm curious.... Has this teacher been nasty

to you all year long?June 10 at 12:19pm · Like←← RemoveLisa Reed You aren't getting it. No one is opposed to

communicating with teachers about actual problems and dealing with them in an adult manner. The point is that there is a time and place. In the parking lot (where you aren't supposed to loiter btw), in front of the child, is not it. Email, phone call, letter, are all very good options.June 10 at 12:19pm · Like

←← RemoveDerek Witt Lisa takes childs voice away REALLY? If child

is issue then saying to parwnt in front of child gives child right to hear EXACTLY what is being said not 2nd. Hand from a parent who is mad at how message being delivered and hearing about half of the accurate information .. I think this allows child to say to parent what they feel happened and teue root of problem addressed and the hurt feelings taken away by slant a parent will take.June 10 at 12:21pm · Like · 2

←← RemoveKim Helm Why do so many of you think the teacher is

correct and THE mother of this child is wrong?June 10 at 12:24pm · Edited · Like

←← RemoveLisa Reed I would suggest taking a child development

course, gain some basic knowledge of child psychology before you criticize that. Do you remember being a young child? Elementary aged kids are very sensitive and they don't understand things the way adults do. That's just common sense. The teacher was stressed, hurried, whatever...we all are. She could have handled it better, accomplished the same level of communication without making herself look bad. I'll be eager to hear of what the principal and teacher have to say.June 10 at 12:26pm · Like

←← RemoveJerry Martin I agree Sarah Swanson. I would talk to

Principal.June 10 at 12:27pm · Like←← RemoveDerek Witt Lisa we will have to agree to disagree.. you

have your right to opinion I as an ex educator with three generations of ex educators have my opinions as well.. to be honest this specific example is tough and as I said all the way through could of been handled better by teacher BUT I get sooo tires of hearing run to principal and super and get her in trouble at EVERY chance they can.. it is TERRIBLE teaching as child thinks every time I get in trouble from teacher I can just blame teacher. We are cheating kids by putting those thoughts in their heads. If parents can teach better then home school and do it your way and then nobody will ever say anything to hurt your childs or your feelingsJune 10 at 12:27pm · Edited · Like · 6

←← RemoveKim Helm I'm sorry but at certain schools you need to skip

the principle and go above them, they are there for the teacher not the student and parents, the people higher up, care about publicity and will get things done so it stays in the school and out of this kind of media.June 10 at 12:29pm · Like

←← RemoveLisa Reed We don't know this child, you are right. We

don't know their level of development, that is also true. I think we all can agree that there was apparently some kind of misunderstanding here. Hopefully it gets resolved peacefully for all involved. June 10 at 12:29pm · Like · 2

←← RemoveSarah Swanson Never met this teacher before. First time.

This post wasn't meant for a battle. The way this teacher handled this was wrong period!!! I'm not blaming the teacher for my child's behavior at all, I'm simply saying she should handle it like a adult and a educator. Derek you are quick to say I coddle my child and excuse his actions or what if any his consequence would be. You are missing the big picture cause you have a different view on what happened and think everyone else is ignorant and that is incorrect. Thank you for any positive input received!

GeezJune 10 at 12:31pm · Like · 3←← RemoveLisa Reed Please post an update Sarah Swanson. Ask

them what their policy is on communicating with parents. I'd be interested to know if there actually is an official policy on the matter.June 10 at 12:35pm · Like

←← RemoveKim Helm Sarah Swanson, you are just a caring mother,

we try to do what is best for our kids and only we know what is best for them, teachers are there to teach and communicate with the parent and child in a professional manner. If this teacher has been having problems with your child they should have contacted you or the .principle, in a better wayJune 10 at 12:35pm · Like · 1

←← RemoveDerek Witt @Sarah- I in fact mentioned several times that

I felt it could be handled better by the teacher in this case.. I also stated I do not feel that you expressing this to teacher is not a bad idea BUT I have also said that I do not agree with running to principal when upset and I feel that there is better ways to show kids (not just your situation) I see to many times where immediately a group of parents get worked to a tizzy and trample a teacher and nobody sticks up for the teacher because they wont get on FB and post their side. They also dont go on FB everytime a parent is in the wrong amd theor reputation never gets cleaned up by apology from parent who went on a rant for every single time they feel their child was wronged. 90% of time it is proven teacher was right to begin with. I apologize for this being time I spoke up on your post.. I just felt aomeone needs to stand up at some point and say teachers are people too and shouldnt ALWAYS be bashed by pack mentality becauase they wont tell their side.. Do they make mistakes at times ...of course... but the good they do outweighs the mistakes about 99 to 1... sorry for hijacking your post.. hope all works outJune 10 at 12:49pm · Like · 9

←← RemoveCindi Staub Howard So publically bad mouthing the

teacher on a public domain is a far better approach???? NiceJune 10 at 1:20pm · Like · 8

←← RemoveDerek Witt Carol Reed you must of not read where I have

said I have NOT ONE, but TWO children in the district. One is just finishing 8th grade and one will be in Kindergarten next year. I have also said if my child is having issues with behavior or grades then I don't care if it is in the parking lot, grocery store, etc... I have no problems with the teacher coming up and letting me know. You just said that sending notes home or emailing doesn't always work. She had a chance to let the parent know face to face and simply let the parent know (communicate) what the issue was. I also said I am sure that there could be better ways to address, but just as parents have timing issues dealing with 1-4 kids and

their issues, IMAGINE how tough it is to deal with 25 plus kids and their families schedules, issues, etc...Also being from a family full of educators for over 30 plus years and being in education for over 17 myself (before leaving because of parents- NOT KIDS- but parents) I have devoted my entire life studying the best practices in helping kids of all types reach their potential not only as students, but also as human beings) To use your example if my child spills something it IS HIS RESPONSIBILITY to clean it up. You can ask people around me, I am constantly on both of my kids for all the manners they need. (Please/Thank You etc for the 8th grader and the kindergartner) and I will always back the teacher in a situation like that if my kids need to fix the situation. So you running to the superintendent with your problems seem like a waste of time when to be honest I would hope you would expect your child to act like a human being and not entitled to think others are there to serve them. The fact you got what you wanted doesn't mean you are right it, means that once again you chose to blame the teacher/janitor because you didn't like how it was handled instead of teaching your child that they are RESPONSIBLE for their own actions. It is to bad because as these generations grow up feeling that way they will continue to struggle once they are in the real world and you can't protect them any longer. This is not about you getting what you want because schools would rather cater to those making the noise instead of doing what they are intended to do and that is make a greater student/person.. They unfortunately can't do that any longer as they are to busy kissing butt to parents who run to the board every time little Johnny gets in trouble for doing something they shouldn't of been doing to begin with. I am sorry if this is straight forward and seems like it is at you, BUT YOU made this personal when you called me out without reading the posts above and called me out.June 10 at 1:25pm · Like · 9

←← RemoveLisa Reed Cindi Staub Howard no one named names.

Monroe SD has a lot of teachers.June 10 at 1:31pm · Like · 1←← RemoveAmanda Gram Why don't you then!? No one is forced to

send their kids to public school. You can home school or send them to a private school or you can even hire a teacher to teach in your home. If you had your choice-come on!June 10 at 1:58pm · Like · 2

←← RemoveAmanda Gram Monroe is a great school dist and if you

don't like it-take your kid to another district. Pretty simple.June 10 at 1:59pm · Like · 2

←← RemoveLisa Reed Not everyone is able to home school due to

employment reasons. Many of us have no choice but to entrust the teachers in public schools to do the best for our kids. Not all of them are saints...there are some that should no longer be teaching at worst, and need re-training at best. Perhaps it is due to the current climate that the

administration is creating for our teachers, I don't know.June 10 at 2:01pm · Like

←← RemoveLisa Reed I have a child in another school district in King

County and compared to that district, Monroe is just not good. People in Monroe who've never experienced anything else probably don't have a real perspective on how bad it really is.June 10 at 2:03pm · Like · 1

←← RemoveAmanda Gram No one is forced to send their kids to public

school. ← I have two different kids in two different districts. Both have their

ups and downs but at the end of the day Monroe is a great place to educate our kiddos.June 10 at 2:04pm · Like · 3

←← RemoveLisa Reed We will have to disagree on that one. People

are forced by law to have their children educated, and if they are not able to home school, and don't have the money to do private, then yes, they are basically forced to send to public school. Attending another district isn't always easy or do-able either, as I'm sure you can understand.June 10 at 2:05pm · Like · 2

←← RemoveMegan Hofmann Gieger So many people like to blame

the teachers and the district. I am getting so tired of hearing people complain about our district. Then find another one! I went to a "not so good" elementary school growing up. But I went on to college, graduated with a degree and have been very successful. It's not about the school! It's about the parents. You cannot blame the teacher or the district for children's behavior and success/failure. Parents have to take back the role of primary provider/educator/disciplinary and quit leaving it for others.June 10 at 2:10pm · Like · 9

←← RemoveLisa Reed It takes a village.....June 10 at 2:13pm · Like←← RemoveJason Petty This post started out with a reasonable

question asking for recommendations on how to handle her situation. I believe Sarah got many responses with suggestions on how others would handle it. I don't see any reason this discussion needs to continue down the path that it's found. Education and discipline are the responsibility of both families and teachers. We are all passionate about both subjects, obviously. Parents and teachers need to work together to build students into successful and respectful adults. If there are disagreements between the two, then it should be worked out between the two. Sometimes along with the help of Administrative Leadership including Principals or above. At the end of the day, we all must work together. It never works the other way.June 10 at 2:31pm · Like · 13

←

← RemoveAmanda Palmer Hauer www.k12/wavaJune 10 at 2:42pm · Like · 1

←← RemoveMavanee Foulger Depending on the school!!!! I would go

to the principal. .if no action has happened I would file a complaint with MONROE SCHOOL DISTRICT.GOOD LUCK,cuz Monroe school district will first support the teacher,then they will pretend to show support to the parents. Depending on circumstances.June 10 at 3:47pm · Like

←← RemoveMavanee Foulger FYI?? Yes the parents need to take

responsibility for their child,BUT!!!!Your wrong bout that's it's not about the SCHOOL. ...I've seen way to much having had kids of different ages go through the school system,and schools are to blame also,by the way they handle situations with kids,for many reasons!!! WAKE up peopleJune 10 at 3:54pm · Like · 1

←← RemoveTate Kyle 1/2 the storyJune 10 at 5:59pm · Like · 4←← RemoveCeleste Thompson Straight to the top← The superintendent : ← hooverk@monroe.wednet.edu or by calling his office @

360.804.2501June 10 at 6:12pm · Like←← RemoveTeresa St Arnauld Ok guys, remember this group is for

constructive criticism, not negative. She got the answer she was looking for. There is no need to bash the school, the teachers, the parents or the district. It doesn't solve anything. Please stop the bashing otherwise I will be forced to remove the posts.

← Thank you.June 10 at 6:31pm · Like · 10←← RemoveMavanee Foulger Remember these are only opinions!!!!!!

do what is best for you, and your child.FREEDOM OF THE RIGHT TO SPEAK.:))June 10 at 7:28pm · Like

←← RemoveLisa Reed Many of us have had very real negative

experiences with teachers. What one may see as bashing may be reality to someone else. There are teachers in this district that show obvious signs of burn out...maybe through no fault of their own, but it does show. Not bashing, just pointing out what some of us parents observe and experience. Teachers make mistakes...parents are within their rights to be upset and take it straight to the principal if they want. Or do nothing if they don't. Differing opinions should not be a reason for censorship. I have not seen anyone mention a specific teacher or school, so I think removing posts would be a bit unfair.June 10 at 7:48pm · Like · 1

←← RemoveLisa Reed and in regards to my comments about the

Monroe school district, the numbers don't lie. Monroe schools are lagging far behind other schools in the area. Anyone that wants to can look up the numbers and verify for themselves. Again, not bashing. Stating a fact.June 10 at 7:51pm · Like · 1

←← RemoveAmanda Palmer Hauer Online public school, through the

state. Enrolled my child for next year--the student works directly with a teacher, but is guided by the parents and works at their pace. It's like home school, but still ensuring the child meets state requirements if they enter the brick and mortar public school system again for whatever reason.

← My daughter has spent two months in a Monroe school and I am not impressed. Although I am fortunate enough to work from home and have the flexibility to have her do her schooling at home, and I realize many do not have this option. Bottom line is: if you don't like the way things are done, look into other options.June 10 at 8:03pm · Like · 2

←← RemoveTanya Schneider Adamson I have never been unhappy

with my children's experiences but I have had the luxury of being very hands on in the classrooms and volunteering up at the school so I have always been dialed in and have always had a very open line of communication. I know that it is a luxury that a lot do not have Really sorry to hear when anyone is frustrated and has tried to make things better to no avail. I hope better days for you all who are struggling with challenges.June 10 at 8:43pm · Like · 8

←← RemoveEriks Skujins Why so snarkey people?June 10 at 9:22pm

· Like · 2←← RemoveRyan Klemmer Amanda, it's not fair comparing apples and

bricks.June 10 at 9:38pm · Edited · Like←← RemoveTwila Epler Sarah Swanson The school our children

attend is a great school, and I do understand how you are likely feeling regarding how you were approached. But I would like you to think back to a 'partially unrelated' comment I have made in the past about my old employment position: If others were upset with me and went over me to complain then that person would be the one who would set a problem into a larger problem in motion and the person who would immediately be given the complaint and the task of resolving it would be ME, the one they were trying to avoid confronting. During any type of situation, if I was found to be in the wrong - or the right - or if it was a grey difficult area I have voiced many times that I would have had an easier time resolving the concern in the same way without people involving the extra paperwork, higher stress, and verbal banter. In the end it didn't change the outcome, but when people just came to me they had a tendency to

(typically) feel better about it. I agree with Derek Witt, who I think you have misread - please take a minute and make sure you are not reacting to emotions in this case. Go and speak with the teacher - with or without your son. At least try to start there, I know that I always felt better doing it that way. Also if you do need to go to anyone above the teacher and they ask you 'Did you try to resolve this with the teacher' you can proudly say Yes, and not feel like you are being run in circles when they are possibly just following the protocol. Also; now that it's been a little bit, maybe ask your son how he is feeling about what happened. I asked my sons how they would feel if this happened to them and they both told me that they would be upset, but it would be the right thing for the teacher to do, because they should behave or be able to know for sure if mom / dad / and teacher agree it's wrong.June 10 at 10:16pm · Like · 9

←← RemoveJeff Brown It's the last week of school and you're meeting

your kid's teacher for the first time?June 10 at 10:42pm · Edited · Like · 3←← RemoveJeff Brown "Sarah Swanson Never met this teacher

before. First time."←← Pretty clear. Mid year replacement or not primary teacher maybe?

June 10 at 10:48pm · Like←← RemoveLisa Reed Possibly. There have been a few changes at

the schools. I've only had a sit-down in person meeting with my child's teacher twice this year, and it would be zero times if I hadn't raised hell about it.June 10 at 10:51pm · Like

←← RemoveJeff Brown Hmm, I've met with my kids' teachers dozens

of times. I would just approach the teacher first, we've had a few misunderstandings that were easily solved by discussing.June 10 at 10:53pm · Like · 3

←← RemoveLisa Reed You are very lucky. Not all of us have had that

experience, and it certainly hasn't been from lack of trying. In the past month I've sent two emails a week to my child's teacher. Not a single response. Not one. Parents have been instructed to email first unless it is urgent. I'm just checking in to see how my kid is doing and I get ignored. Do I do nothing, or go to the principal? I really do envy the parents who are able to be involved at the school and/or who've been blessed with a teacher who is a great and willing communicator. Not all of them are. It is quite sad. Who really wants to go to someone's boss to tattle on them? I bet no one does. Sometimes it's the only option though.June 10 at 10:57pm · Edited · Like · 1

←← RemoveLisa Reed I'd really love to pick people's brains here

(maybe in another post) on how they get teachers to actually respond.June 10 at 10:59pm · Like

←← RemovePaige Sprague Sarah Swanson Go with your gut.June 10

at 11:40pm · Like · 1←← RemoveTanya Schneider Adamson I have had my kids in Park

Place, Monroe High, Chain Lake, Fryelands, and Frank Wagner. (I have three and they are quite far apart in age) I have never had a teacher problem, save one, and it was not a big deal. I guess I have been very fortunate. Being able to volunteer and be a presence is absolutely a benefit I have always been grateful for. I always attend any and every conference and establish a communication early on. I also have never had a teacher not respond to emails and phone calls. I can believe it happens. I am just stymied and sad that my experience is so vastly different. My kids have been in standard class, Excel, and honors and in all the cases I really felt I had a partnership with the teachers. Wish it was like that for everyone.June 10 at 11:55pm · Like · 5

←← RemoveSarah Swanson It is not his primary teacher. I've attended

every conference, school concert, back to school thing, we participate in fundraisers. We have a very open line of communication with his teacher, just never met this particular one.Yesterday at 7:21am · Like · 2

←← RemoveTwila Epler If this person isnt his normal or regular

teacher: Do you know the teacher's name? Does your son? Maybe the best first step would be to go and calmly bring your concern to one of the receptionists in the office and see what they think should be done. But the fact that this teacher 'ran' to you at your car does make a little more sense if she is jist like a recess aid or classroom helper for him. If she's been upset all year and hasn't had the ability to contact you, maybe had an extra hard day that day, i could see that someone might make the mistake of letting the pressure go way too fast in a bad spot with the first sudden chance. It was NOT handled well, but for all you know the teacher has wanted to talk to you for a long time and wasn't able.Yesterday at 7:49am · Like · 1

←← RemoveJim Scott First step in any issue is to talk with the

principle. If satisfaction is not achieved move up the chain of command until it is. Though I have no way of knowing, I suspect there may be more to this story than what we are seeing. It is the end of the year and I find it hard to imagine a teacher waiting this long to have a conversation or other contact with the parent of a child that may be disruptive in class or on the playground. That would indicate having put up with the disruptions all year long with no attempt to fix it. Waiting is not in a teacher's job description. Self preservation and personal sanity dictate they take action in a timely

fashion. They are almost always proactive in dealing with any level of classroom disruption in my experience.18 hours ago · Like · 6

←← RemoveDottie Durant Simoni This entire thread is extremely

disturbing. As a teacher in the MSD (32 years), I cannot help but feel that many of these posts are direct attacks on teachers and the Monroe School District. Please, let's keep our posts positive. I appreciate parents who contact me with concerns before approaching the principal, but if that is not possible, definitely call the principal. Ninety-nine percent of the time, the situation can be resolved when the teacher, parent, and student meet. Teachers are human and make mistakes ( many times I have wished I handled a situation differently), and it is an extremely stressful time of year. Please contact the teacher and express your concerns.12 hours ago · Like · 14

←← RemoveLisa Reed Not everyone is going to agree, and obviously

not all of us are happy with the Monroe School District or all of the teachers. There ARE great teachers, no doubt about that. There are also some that don't do as great of a job and aren't easy to communicate with. Some leave parents no choice but to go over their head. I also have to say that even if my opinion is not popular, it is mine, and I am entitled to share it. I disagree with the other opinions, but I'm not asking anyone to stop posting it. I won't be posting specific names, obviously, but I will ask for advice if needed...not everyone will be a cheerleader for the teachers all of the time. P.S. can anyone explain why it is a problem to go to the principal first? Do teachers get docked/penalized in some way?11 hrs · Like · 2

←← RemoveLisa Reed P.P.S. I had the Simoni's for teachers in school

and they were awesome. Teachers like them are not who I'm unhappy with. I wish my children's teachers were as great.11 hrs · Like

←← RemoveDottie Durant Simoni Thanks, Lisa Reed. I want to hear

other opinions, and I realize that there are teachers who need assistance. There is no penalty for us when the principal is contacted first but, eventually, we end up talking to the parent and I just appreciate being given the opportunity to resolve the situation before a third party needs to get involved. However, there are times when the principal need to be contacted.11 hrs · Edited · Like

←← RemoveLisa Reed I hope my son has you as a teacher. He sure

could use it! Looking forward to PPMS next year.11 hrs · Like · 1←← RemoveLisa Reed Is Mr. Mork still around?11 hrs · Like←← RemoveDottie Durant Simoni Lisa, you must have had a different

last name when you were in middle school...or I am just getting way too

old!!! Mr. Mork is a superintendent / principal for a small school in Crescent, WA. I miss him! I still teach 8th grade, but I will look for your son next year!11 hrs · Like · 1

←← RemoveTwila Epler Whether the teachers get docked or penalized

is only part of the concern. In case they do get docked in some way for concerns they were not given a chance to resolve themselves we, as parents, should not be causing the extra strikes againt them on their record. In event they don't get docked we should still give them the courtesy whenever possible to resolve our concerns with us. This is a big part of what they teach and what they do each day with our children, why cant we give them the faith that they can apply what they teach when it comes to ourselves. On the side of the principal they have a very full day each day. We should also respect the principal and not cause an over abundance of work or distract them from other important tasks that are geared toward our children by bringing them concerns that could be resolved with the teacher. Of course, the principal is always happy to help, but a third concern is children learn from what they live, and if they always see us run and tattle they may not put effort into their own conflicts. This is why i say try to fix this with the teacher.11 hrs · Like · 1

←← RemoveLisa Reed I wonder if he still has Garfield I moved from

Monroe right after 6th grade.11 hrs · Like · 1←← RemoveSarah Swanson Tattle? This teacher was completely out

of line and talked and approached me in a inappropriate way. Not to mention never, not once had the curiosity to contact me through out the year or treat me with respect BUT you think she deserves the chance for me to go to her, for her to do what exactly???? The principle needs to know so maybe she can fix the way she handles things with parents. That is all. I don't want to get her fired, punished etc.11 hrs · Like · 1

←← RemoveLindsey Ellen Schwartz My uncle( Mr Mork) works for

crescent school district near port Angeles:) Lisa He's on fb...You can ask about Garfield!11 hrs · Like

←← RemoveLisa Reed That is great! Made my day! Glad to hear he is

doing well.11 hrs · Like←← RemoveLindsey Ellen Schwartz Yes he's good, saw him two

weeks ago!11 hrs · Like←← RemoveTwila Epler Sorry sarah, 'tattle' was a word i chose

because i was trying to explain what they might view it as. I didn't chose the word tattle thinking it might cause more upset here. You seem pretty determined that you know what you want to do. Go and do what you want

to do... I hope it goes well for you.11 hrs · Like←← RemoveErin Wahoo G I imagine the teacher has seen this, as well

as other teachers at your school. After the nastiness posted through this thread I wouldn't anticipate any of your child's future teachers rushing to communicate with you about your child either.11 hrs · Like · 5

←← RemovePaige Sprague Mr. Mork was one of my favorite teachers

too! 11 hrs · Like · 1←← RemoveLisa Reed Erin Wahoo G because that's the professional

thing for them to do? Ignore a parent who made a general statement about teachers in this district? Proves my point right there if that's what you really mean.11 hrs · Like · 2

←← RemoveErin Wahoo G I mean what I said, feel free to interpret as

you wish.11 hrs · Edited · Like · 1←← RemoveLisa Reed That is unfortunate. Just because someone

does not have an opinion that is equal to yours, does not make how they feel (based on actual experiences) "nastiness". It is just a different opinion. I'm not calling anyone else's differing opinion "nastiness". I think it's fair to say there are many differing opinions here. We've all experienced different things apparently. Some of us have apparently not been so lucky in the teacher/communication department. I'm not going to sit back and say Monroe is great, all the teachers are great and give them a pass for their bad behaviors either.11 hrs · Like

←← RemoveCindi Staub Howard Seriously, after 24 hrs of

harking.........take a page from Disney and "Let it Go"!11 hrs · Like · 2←← RemoveJason Petty All, this post has served its purpose and has

taken yet another turn downhill. I'll post again what I said yesterday. Let's be done with this…

←← This post started out with a reasonable question asking for

recommendations on how to handle her situation. I believe Sarah got many responses with suggestions on how others would handle it. I don't see any reason this discussion needs to continue down the path that it's found. Education and discipline are the responsibility of both families and teachers. We are all passionate about both subjects, obviously. Parents and teachers need to work together to build students into successful and respectful adults. If there are disagreements between the two, then it should be worked out between the two. Sometimes along with the help of Administrative Leadership including Principals or above. At the end of the day, we all must work together. It never works the other way.10 hrs · Like ·

6←← RemoveJeannie Button This is all very ridiculous, a parent has the

choice of how they would like to handle a situation. The problem here is very simple, the parent that brought this up was not malice, derogatory, slandering, or anything else that anyone wants to spin this as. This parent has said that her child will be disciplined at home and was wrong for miss behaving. Now the next issue is the teacher decided not to notify the parent ALL year until the last weeks of school and then take it upon themselves to discuss a situation in front of their child in a very disrespectful manner. It is not the teachers decision on whether or not the child should be present for such a conversation, that is the parents. It also is NOT acceptable for a teacher to not communicate an issue that's going on. As far as I am concerned that is failing the child and all classmates because they are no longer getting as much out of the class because of the distractions that the parent is not able to correct because they don't know about it. The teachers are not paid to babysit but they are paid to teach and when issues like this are happening and are not getting corrected at home then they are no longer giving the service they are paid for. Simple, a quick email could be sent or a phone call or even a note sent home in a sealed envelope. If it was my child I would be extremely angry that my child was acting this way and they would be punished at home, next I would be angry that my child was allowed and enabled to act this way for so long at school without giving the parent the opportunity to get it fixed. Next I would be even more angry for having a teacher speak to me in that manner and in front of my child. These are teachers they are teaching our children how to act and acting this way towards the child's parent in front of them is not teaching them to be respectful. If a teacher wants to be respected they need to model the behavior the children should take on. I appreciate teachers and what they go through, they do an awful lot but they also should have rules as anyone else with a job they get paid for.10 hrs · Like

←← RemoveJeannie Button And for the tattling, that comment is

extremely juvenile. It's called caring about her child's education. At least she cares enough to take care of it at home and try to fix it at school, a lot of parents these days are to lazy or don't care enough to follow up with issues at school. She is being thrown under the bus for being very careful not to throw the person under the bus but to ask for parent advice and many of you have chose to turn this around. Isn't this site supposed to be for parents support? She is a concerned parent trying yo fix an issue.10 hrs · Like

←← RemoveTeresa St Arnauld Ok guys, this post and the many

comments are now getting to the name calling and negative sentiments that we do not allow. Sarah has received many different ideas on how to

resolve this. This post is now doing more harm than good and I will be taking it down.

←← You can have all the opinions you want, but you must take the time

to make those opinions constructive. You don't like something? That's fine, but what would you want to see in place of that?

←← This is not a forum to just complain, insult, bash or rant about the

schools. ← We are here for the children. We are here to give ideas to each

other, to share stories and to answer questions. I created this group because I was tired of seeing only hate for the school district. I want people to feel like they can ask anything, big or small, smart or silly a question with no fear that they will get bashed on, same goes for the district. There is another group for that if you don't want to try and solve the many problems that are plaguing the schools, parents, children and district.9 hrs · Like · 4

←← RemoveDebra Kolrud My suggestion and experience is to always

talk with the teacher first. An open dialog between guardian and teacher is essential for student success. Set up and an appointment and meet face to face if possible. Discuss the student behavior and discuss the concern with the teachers chosen communication approach. It's always best to talk and try to work together to find those solutions. If that meeting is unsuccessful, meaning no mutual agreement was achieved, then use the proper chain of command and talk with the building Principal, as they are the ones that evaluate our teachers. Maybe other parents have also shared similar experience and communication methods need improved. Usually a plain old fashion respectful discussion can bring parent and teacher together to address any concern and work on issues together.Unable to post comment. Try AgainRemove

←

Debra Kolrud via Debra Kolrud Monroe School Director 2007-2011June 10 at 8:39amThe Tribune reports on Monroe School District teachers fear of being bullied. Former staff have also come forward to speak up on the alleged district “bullying” of teachers. "Former Monroe teacher Shane

Fortune said he was deeply affected by anxiety from bullying during his time at the district. He said he knew of another Monroe teacher who had a similar experience."“Recently, (Bruton) told the school directors that many of the teachers in the Monroe School District are living in fear and feel that they are being bullied, but that they are afraid to speak up for fear of retaliation,” Fortune said. “I urge the school directors to look into these allegations. I was a victim of bullying when I taught here in the school district. Mental torture leaves emotional scars on its victims long after the bullying stops.”

Monroe teachers claim district bullied them | The Snohomish County TribuneMonroe teachers claim district bullied themDisagreement over math curriculum leads to redoing selection processMelanie Russell photo Teachers united at last...SNOHO.COM

LikeLike · · Share← Geno Cuevas likes this.←← RemoveKim Helm Why do they all look so confused?June 10 at

12:30pm · Like · 1←← RemoveDottie Durant Simoni They are reading a presentation.

June 10 at 7:29pm · Like←← RemoveJeff Brown "“I’m very happy with the board’s decision

tonight,” Woolley said. “I think they really did a good job of listening to the teachers’ input. "June 10 at 10:46pm · Like · 1

←← RemoveDebra Kolrud I'm also please with President Woods, and

Directors Jason Hutchinson and Darcy Liming Cheesman voting against the math curriculum, however I remain deeply disappointed the board has yet to have an open discussion on the "contentious relationship" described by the teacher union President. When I served on the school board (2007-2011), I shared concern of this on-going torn relationship in my 2010/11 evaluation of the Superintendent which included the following: "I still have grave concerns with the Superintendent lack of interaction with our staff, in particular is building a relationship with our teaching staff....there continues to be torn down bridges that need to be built to establish a working relationship with this valuable employee group."19 hours ago ·

Like←← RemoveJeff Brown Yeah, well what else is new?19 hours ago ·

Like←← RemoveDebra Kolrud It's important that our teachers concern are

addressed. The MEA President has described their relationship with the district as a "contentious relationship", one that hasn’t been good for a couple of years, and that this is the worse its ever been. Th...See More

← Monroe School District teacher's union President, says teachers feel bullied, and threatened Part One - Monroe School District teacher union President Shaerie Bruton, tells ... See More17 hours ago · Like · Remove Preview

←← RemoveJeff Brown I love how you've defined it as 'failed

relationship with our teachers'. Truth is, it could be a total failure, a few unhappy teachers, or a union tactic. Hopefully we'll find out more from the teachers.13 hours ago · Like

←← RemoveLindsey Ellen Schwartz Annette Gaeth-Woolley love your

face here!11 hrs · Like←← RemoveDebra Kolrud I used the descriptors "torn relationship" and

also "failed relationship" where as the exactly description of the district and teacher relationship that was stated by the union President in her address to the board was "contentious relationship". It would be wrong to suggest this is just "a union tactic", or just "a few unhappy teachers". Such suggestions would be comparable to saying if the ASB president, or a sports team captain, or a club president said their members felt bullied, intimidated or harassed, and suggesting it's a few students, or suggest it's a tactic, or better yet, have it described as "little bit of posturing going on there" as described by Superintendent Hoover. Doesn't matter if it's one in three students with the concern, or one in three of our teachers, the board has a responsibility to ensure our schools are free of bullying, harassment and intimidation. Dismissing even one concern from one teacher would be sending the wrong message.10 hrs · Like

←← RemoveJeff Brown It's one in three teachers? I also didn't see

anyone dismissing concerns.10 hrs · Like←← RemoveDebra Kolrud Suggesting it could be "a few unhappy

teachers, or a union tactic" can appear to be a reason to dismiss the concern. The same suggestion could be offered when a student makes a claim of harassment. Again, that would be wrong to dismiss the concern because of such suggestions.10 hrs · Like

←

← RemoveJeff Brown Or it could not be. I am concerned, having three kids in the schools myself, but prefer as always not to rush to judgment based on could be's and sound bites.3 hrs · Like

←← RemoveDebra Kolrud The teacher union President stands up for

teachers at a public meeting, reporting to the school board that teachers feel bullied, intimidated and threaten, afraid to speak up for fear of intimidation, fearful they will be retaliated on, and Mr. Brown refers to as "sound bites", "union tactic", "a few unhappy teachers"! All I can say is how very sad, and what double standard. Could you imagine if a teacher used such analogy when bulling concerns are shared with them?2 hrs · Like

←← RemoveJeff Brown No, I referred to your selective quotes as

sound bites and your passive aggressive weasel words like 'might be' 'could be' as speculation, then I said I would reseeve judgement since I don't know all the facts. And I can imagine quite a lot, but again I prefer not to speculate.1 hr · Like

←← RemoveJeff Brown As someone who is friends with a lot of the

teachers in Monroe and has three school age children, I think it would be fair to say that between us, I'm the one with a dog in this hunt, so to speak.

←← Also, as someone who grew up a victim of bullying, I am very

aware of it, and resent your insinuation that I somehow condone it. ←← It's a shame that some teachers feel bullied. We need to figure out

why that is, the extent of the problem, and address it. That will get done in meetings, not on Facebook or in the local papers.1 hr · Like

←← RemoveDebra Kolrud Actually it was your words Mr Jeff Brown not

my words that suggested it could be "a union tactic", but we do agree we need this addressed. Do you happen to know when this discussion will get underway, as there has already been two board meetings since the May 12th school board meeting when the Union President reported the "contentious relationship" and that teachers feel bullied?32 mins · Like

←RemoveJeff Brown I'm done with you22 mins · Like