need help with wording a teacher request

It sounds like you are on the right track.

I’ve always had success by having a sit down with the current teacher or asst. principal and saying something like ” Word on the street is that Mrs. XYZ can be very strict and impatient with children who are a little different. I don’t know if that is really true, but if it is then I don’t think she would be a good fit for my son, given his learning issues.”

I do this verbally, in a casual way, and I’ve never had a problem.

In a letter I probably wouldn’t mention anyone by name but would first thank the principal for DS’s current teacher (if it was a good year). And say something like ” we’ve learned that DS learns best in a classroom where he feels comfortable. A nurturing gentle teacher that can recognize his strengths is best for him”

Good luck!

Hmmm… I would be *very* cautious about using words like “cranky.” Instead, I’d word it more like “while many students benefit from a highly structured teacher who has very strict expectations, my son’s disabilities mean that some days he is able to do more than on other days, and needs a teacher who deals with this in a natural, nurturing way that makes the “off” days less painfully obvious to him (and others). [Of course I don’t know if this is the case with your son :) ] Though others would flourish under a no-“nonsense” “let’s get down to business” teacher, this atmosphere triggers anxiety in my son and he spends his energy on worry instead of on academics.”
Or somethign like that .l..

Though others would flourish under a no-“nonsense” “let’s get down to business” teacher, this atmosphere triggers anxiety in my son and he spends his energy on worry instead of on academics.”

wow, well said. This would do it at my school - I’m saving this one.

Hello,

I just turned in a teacher request for two of my children the other day. I already had the two teachers in mind that I wanted my children to have. I just mentioned the names of the teachers I wanted and listed the reasons why. For my youngest daughter who has epilepsy, I requested the teacher that is known to spend that extra few minutes with a child to make sure they understand something plus the teacher has taught children with her condition in the past. My son who is very animated and tends to get away with everything, I have requested the strict teacher that other parents try to avoid. I felt I had a legitimate reason for both requests. I think it helped since I knew specifically which teachers I wanted. I think it would be harder going about it the way you are…my luck they wouldn’t pick up on the hints like “I need a less cranky teacher”…for all you know everyone at the school adores this older teacher and won’t get who you are talking about. Anyway, I hope it goes well for you and that your son will get a great teacher next year.

Best Wishes, Becki

requests for specific teachers are not allowed at my school and many others. So its a tricky issue-The right teacher is everything but don’t ask. However, a teaching style or climate can be considered through IEP process.

I thought Sue provided a brilliant way of not-asking but looking for that specific style.