In a matter of days, we will be at the end of yet another school year. "Pomp and Circumstance" will have played over the loud speakers of local auditoriums and stadiums for the final time. Kids, teachers, and parents alike will be
One of the most significant lessons I've learned this year, as a parent, is the importance of advocating for your kid(s)... especially when they are too young to know how/when to do so for themselves.
Case in point...
If you follow me on any social media outlet, you know that my son was recently awarded a trophy for EARNING a spot on the honor roll each nine weeks this school year. He endured the constant nagging from his dad and I about always doing his best and not worrying about what others are/are not doing. The kid put in a lot of work to ensure that all of his homework assignments and projects were completed and turned in on time. He even performed well on most tests. Keep in mind though, he didn't really keep up with what his averages were in each class, however, he was certainly aware of the fact that any time his grades would 'slip', his Momma wouldring his neck give him a stern talking to to help him get back on track LOL.
Imagine our disappoint at the awards ceremony when all of the students who were to receive trophies for their honor roll achievements were lined-up on stage and our kid's name was never called!
It wasn't until AFTER the ceremony was over and AFTER I went back to the classroom to insist that the homeroom teacher and I compare grades did he receive his trophy. The teacher had to, literally, use a printed copy of my kid's report card to verify his honor roll status. Very, VERY disappointing - especially in the age of computers and fancy grading software!
What if I wasn't an involved parent and missed the opportunity for my kid to see the positive results of their hard work? What would have happened if circumstances were different and he needed an additional credit in order to promote to the next grade level, but the teacher/school made a mistake in reporting? Would they eventually realize their error and notify us via mail? Would anyone call? Maybe? Maybe not?
I believe now, more than ever, that I do not need to apologize to anyone or feel guilty about advocating for my kid(s) - at least not at this stage of their life. I'm certain, somewhere down the road, they will have to learn to advocate for themselves. Until that time comes...
I'll continue to be their voice.
Case in point...
If you follow me on any social media outlet, you know that my son was recently awarded a trophy for EARNING a spot on the honor roll each nine weeks this school year. He endured the constant nagging from his dad and I about always doing his best and not worrying about what others are/are not doing. The kid put in a lot of work to ensure that all of his homework assignments and projects were completed and turned in on time. He even performed well on most tests. Keep in mind though, he didn't really keep up with what his averages were in each class, however, he was certainly aware of the fact that any time his grades would 'slip', his Momma would
Imagine our disappoint at the awards ceremony when all of the students who were to receive trophies for their honor roll achievements were lined-up on stage and our kid's name was never called!
It wasn't until AFTER the ceremony was over and AFTER I went back to the classroom to insist that the homeroom teacher and I compare grades did he receive his trophy. The teacher had to, literally, use a printed copy of my kid's report card to verify his honor roll status. Very, VERY disappointing - especially in the age of computers and fancy grading software!
What if I wasn't an involved parent and missed the opportunity for my kid to see the positive results of their hard work? What would have happened if circumstances were different and he needed an additional credit in order to promote to the next grade level, but the teacher/school made a mistake in reporting? Would they eventually realize their error and notify us via mail? Would anyone call? Maybe? Maybe not?
I believe now, more than ever, that I do not need to apologize to anyone or feel guilty about advocating for my kid(s) - at least not at this stage of their life. I'm certain, somewhere down the road, they will have to learn to advocate for themselves. Until that time comes...
I'll continue to be their voice.
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