First Grade Teacher Cuts off Student’s Braid

When I initially saw the following story I was sure it had to be hoax.  After I did a little research I was able to view the original report from Milwaukee ABC affiliate WISN.  Needless to say I was appalled.  I have a seven year old daughter and I am sure that she would have been extremely upset about an incident like this.

I’m not sure how I feel about the fact that the child’s identity has been revealed but, the teacher’s identity has not.  The news outlet made it a point to outline that teacher stress has gone up, which implies that this child stressed the teacher out.  My concern as a parent would be that my child would be labeled.  Would subsequent teachers lack patience with my child because she “stressed” this other teacher out?  Additionally, does teacher stress justify this behavior?  The little girl told Milwaukee’s News12 that the teacher called her over to the desk, said that she was going to give her candy, then cut the braid and threw it in the trash while the entire class watched and laughed. Lamya went back to her desk in tears. She says that the teacher asked her, “‘Now what you gonna go home and say to your momma?,’” to which she sensibly replied, “‘That you cut off my hair,’” according to News12.

Although the local school district would not comment on the specifics of the case, an apology was given.

The News12 report says that the District Attorney has decided not to press charges, but police did issue a $175 fine for Disorderly Conduct.

So, what would you do if this happened to your child?

Be Sure to Tell the Teacher…

School is back in session.  Our children are now back in the hands of educators who pour all of the knowledge they can into them.  At the start of each school year, parents and teachers form partnerships designed to maximize the potential of every student.  As in any working relationship, communication is the key.  As parents, we should do all that we can to make the teachers jobs easier.

No one knows children better than their parents.  With so many students, the information that we can provide teachers is vital to our childrens academic success.  Here are just a few suggestions of what we should share with teachers:

1. Health Concerns/Issues: If your child has food allergies, respiratory conditions, diabetes, behavioral conditions, or other serious health conditions.  Let them know the signs to look for when your child may be in distress.  This information also gives teachers the opportunity to educate themselves on these conditions.
2. Family Issues: Last year my youngest daughter was hospitalized for several weeks.  My oldest daughter was in kindergarten.  Her teachers immediately saw a change in her behavior.  We informed her teachers of what was going on and they were able to accommodate her.  They gave her comfort when she needed it.  Be sure to mention a death in the family, divorce, moving, etc., even if your child seems well adjusted to family issues, keep teachers up to speed.  They may observe behavioral changes that parents are not aware of.
3. Learning Style: Each of us has their own learning style.  Does your child learn through play, have a photographic memory, or retain more information through repetition?  Let the teacher know.  Your insights can help teachers more than you realize.
4. Personality Traits: Does your child have a temper?  Is your child sensitive?  Let teachers know before they develop into problems at school.
5. Hobbies/Interests: If your child has a favorite activity, book, movie,etc., share that too.  The teacher may be able to use that to introduce new concepts and ideas to your child by using something familiar.

Do you have anymore suggestions?  Please share them!