Because increasing standards and NCLB isn't stressfull enough...

Now I'm getting e-mails regarding ex-in law's. I have a grandparent who is apparently going to try and contact me regarding her grandchild... one that the mother has had to get the police involved with in the past.

I'm going to talk to the principal regarding this tomorrow, and apparently the front office knows about the situation... but it just stresses me out that the grandmother will try to get around it by showing up at school after most other people have gone (I'm usually at school until at least 5 or 530, just me, a few random teachers, and the custodians).

I know that the biggest concern is the child... but I've never had to deal with this situation and it's stressing me out

I really wish I hadn't checked my school e-mail...

I mean, my parents have been divorced since before I started school... but they always had a civil relationship, so I really can't draw from that experience... but have any other teachers had to deal with similar situations where the parents do not get along? How should I go about dealing with the grandparent if they do catch me off guard, and I don't have anyone else at school to help me out?

Thanks.

Re: Because increasing standards and NCLB isn't stressfull enough...

If the grandparent comes up to you to ask questions, just calmly let her know that you are legally obligated to keep information about your students confidential and that you only will speak to the parents of the child. I have had aunts, uncles, step-parents, etc try to talk to me about certain students and I politely tell them all the same thing unless I have specific permission from the parent telling me I can.

I have dealt with many different situations like this and its nuts. You have a enough to worry about without worrying about who you should talk to and how to avoid them.

Message edited 4/17/2006 2:14:52 PM.

Re: Because increasing standards and NCLB isn't stressfull enough...

Do not tell her anything!!! It can come back and bite you big time!!!!! I wouldn't even let her in the building. In our school the front office has a list of people not allowed in, those with restraining orders against them, etc. I would hope this woman won't make it past the front door!!

If she is coming after hours, how does she expect to get in??

Message edited 4/17/2006 2:13:23 PM.