My dd was recently dx with ADD and because of many issues that occur almost daily with her kindergarten teacher, I am wanting her to switch classes. She goes to a Catholic school and I have a meeting with the principal on Tuesday to request a transfer. Can he refuse to honor my request? Or do I have any rights as a parent to do what is in the best interest of my child, and that is to have her moved? How do I go about convincing him so I don’t ruffle any feathers. I have other children at the school and don’t want them to suffer because of any hard feelings that may arise from this. I have personally talked with the teacher I want her placed with and she is more than happy to have her and very willing to work with her, unlike the one she has now. Any advice would be appreciated. Thank you so much.
Re: Is it possible to switch Kindergarten teachers?
Des is right. Even in public schools, principals have an awful lot of authority when it comes to class placement.
You do have the strategic advantage of being a “paying customer,” though; but basically, if you go in with a diplomatic, positive attitude and some positively framed reasons for the move (“would benefit from the structures/freedom in the other teacher’s classroom;” — whichever applies ;)) you’ll have a much better chance. You want to be able to do it in such a way so that the principal does not fear a stampede of parents saying “but THEY did it, why can’t we??”
Of course he can refuse your request. This is a private school and he can do whatever he darn pleases. However, you might try to make the request in as positive a manner as possible, stating that you think that for most kids that this teacher would be very good (whether or not you do) and then suggest that for these certain reasons she isn’t good for your particular child (and list them). That might work. Esp if you make it clear that the teacher is doing ok it is just the mix (whether it is or not). I know it isn’t exactly straight shooting, not sure if I could pull that off, but if you make it sound like you think she is a bad teacher, might have bad ramifications.
—des