The other day at the ball field, I chatted with a mom about the crummy weather… small talk.  My daughter was playing on the swings and her daughter was a participant of the tournament.  This woman’s daughter dropped by to see her mom and said “Hi Ms. Younghusband.”  Another student I did not recognize, but recognized me.

That is one of the best or worst things about being a teacher in a small community.  You become a local celebrity.  Personally, I like being known.

Anyway, the mom and I started talking about school.  She asked about what my future plans, if I intend to return to teaching, and reasons why I left.  I was honest and diplomatic.  What is… is.  This was an excellent sign of acceptance.

The dad joined our conversation and started talking about an incident he had been dealing with at the school.  In essence, he spoke about his concerns about how his daughter was being evaluated in one class.  I encouraged him to inquire.  He said he did, but stepped back because he started to “feel bad” about expressing his concerns.

I questioned him.  You should not feel bad or feel like you are the “bad guy.”  YOU ARE THE PARENT ADVOCATE.  That is not a bad thing.  You are only inquiring.  If you are given a rationale or reasonable explanation of what is, then you’d feel satisfied or see action.  Worst case scenario, you would create an opportunity for professional reflection.

Teaching and learning is not about creating “bad feelings”… it’s about working together to establish the best possible outcome.  It’s about communicating.  It’s about negotiating.  It’s about dialogue.  The best part about education is that there are no absolute rights or wrongs… it’s about finding out what works for kids.  Best practices are always evolving.

Another classic edu-rant to a community member and parent.  What I realized is that I am 100% completely passionate about education, teaching, and learning.  What the dad realized is… I should run for municipal government.  He asked, “Are you running for mayor?”  Mayor?  Was I sounding like a politician?  School Board, maybe…

We parted ways and shook hands.  These parents were grateful for our honest and candid conversation about education… and so was I.  His last words were “You have my vote if you run for office this November.”  Now that is a compliment.