Long story short

[Emptypeach]

A child in my room called another child a horrible name (the "n" word), admitted it, but the mom insist he was misunderstood because he has "never heard that word." She was mad at me and the admin. because "now he knows what that word is and all the students now think he used that word." He is a good kid, but a handful. The mom created a BIG stink in the front office and I stayed out of it all I could. Anyway, my question for you: What should I say when she volunteers in my room on Friday? I don't want to say, "are you ok with everything?" because I think she was wrong. (She called me at 10;00 FRIDAY night to discuss this!!) Thanks for your help. You are great.

 

[SC]

Isn't it funny how children "never hear those words," yet can use them in a sentence? He may not have heard it at home, but he heard it somewhere.

I have had parents send me nasty emails and complain about me to the principal, but when I see them in person I treat them politely. Since she's just volunteering on Friday, and it's not a conference, I wouldn't bring it up. Just treat her nicely and focus on whatever is going on in class.

 

[Miss C]

I agree

I agree with SC. Have things ready for her to do, thereby minimizing the opportunity for chat time. Be polite to her and appreciative of her time, but refuse to discuss the incident, even if she brings it up. She may be embarassed about the whole thing too. If she seems to be, put her at ease by acting as though nothing happened. I'm sure it'll be fine. Let us know what happens, 'kay?

 

[newoldteacher]

You took a call from a parent at 10:00??

No way. That's private time.

 

[Emptypeach]

I know..

I was sound asleep. I actually woke up and I was on the phone! Talk about nightmare. Tonight I talked to the mom of the sweet girl that was called the n-word and she wants an apology from the boy. I told her she needs to bring it up with the admin. because this is such a highly emotional issue for all of us. MY NIGHTMARE CONTINUES and I can't please anyone.

 

[bertie]

apology

Have the boy (he admitted it after all, wherever he heard it from) do the apology note on school time, in the office. The girl deserves it. Nothing need be said to anyone else. The boy will likely never use that word again, I'm sure, after all this.