When you call a parent, you need to maintain a log. Some teachers have a daily journal. Other teachers create a worksheet listing the time, and date, and reason. This annecdotal record is the best way to keep track of what was said in past conversations. Communication is two way. Your first impression is what you can tell and find out about the parent, but, the parent also finds out a lot about you.
When you contact a parent, make sure the contact is objective. You need to state both positive and negative aspects of the childs progress. Make a list of these, and state them all. Where there is a need for improvement, state it. The more honest you are in this communication, the more you will benefit the parent - teacher - child model.
Disciplinary contact is usually only negative, so defuse that by offering the parent a path of correction. If the parent has no corrective input, suggest that the student be referred to a school counselor. This will show your concern, and may find out causes for the child's behavior.
Get help from your small learning community coordinator, and don't be afraid to make an appointment with your principal, and vice principal. They are hired to help you with these problems. The behavior worksheet discussed in the section "During the Day" is very helpful during parental contact and intervention sessions.
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