⟩ How do you handle parent complaints about teaching methods? Give an example of a difficult phone call to a parent. How often do you report to parents? What is your communication method with parents?
Your goal is to work in the child’s best interest, together with the parents. In general, you report as often as required and welcome parents’ contribution. Complaints and problems that have not been resolved are addressed to the school principal if necessary. Communication can be any possible way – text, email, phone or a note home. When parents object to teaching method, it is best to have a principal explain and defend the teacher. Parents are not usually as knowledgeable as they think.
If a child is caught cheating or continuously disturbs, this would be a difficult call to make. I would first look over all the child’s work and make a list of his/her good qualities and accomplishments. After reporting that pleasantness, I would factually describe the problem, making sure not to exaggerate. End with another nice comment, and listen to parents. Next I would try to work out a plan with them, or interest them in the plan I worked out. Close with a nice comment about how easy it was to speak with them, or some such compliment and wish them well.
