How Well Do You Know Your Child’s School?

Greetings!

I was recently asked to give some insight on school detentions and with the new school year in full swing this is a perfect time for this topic. Here’s the scoop.

First as I clearly spell out in “Single And ApParent” get involved and stay involved in your child’s education.  Data clearly and consistently shows children who have a parent who is engaged in this manner simpy fare better than those who do not.  In addition, your involvement is also the opportunity to know your child’s school’s discipline policy.

Children can be disciplined for various reasons usually behavioral, and of course the teacher is most often the determinant of that behavioral violation.  So the first thing all parents should do is get familiar with a copy of your school’s code of conduct rules.  Know the rules yourself and share the rules with your child.  To do so puts you and your child ahead of the game already.

If you are at all current on recent events there have been some very disturbing alleged incidents pertaining to school suspensions, with the primary reason being Black children wearing their natural hair in its own ethnic fashion.  Such styles have consisted of various styles of braids, locks, and Afros.

My strong opinion as an educator is, to expell any child for being who they culturally are is a blatant violation of civil liberties and should not be tolerated.

Do you know your school’s policy on detention and expulsions?  Do you have a copy of your child’s school handbook and have you reviewed it with your child to make certain they are clear about your expectations as their parent as well as the school’s?  Have you met your child’s teachers-all of them?  Have you met the administration including Principal?  Have you addressed any concerns in the student handbook that might seem discriminatory and or insensitive in nature?  I could go further but that’s what “Single And ApParent” does, it is far more reaching in detail regarding this topic.

If your answer to any of the above is “no”, I strongly urge you to turn each of these answers into a “yes” before the next school week begins. Remember, it is both your right to know and your DUTY to know in the best interest of your child.

Your questions and comments are needed and welcomed.

Peace~