Start with your child's teacher. In nearly every instance, the first step in managing a school conflict is to talk with the teacher. Today, many teachers and schools use email as a primary means of communication. This can be an ideal first option before requesting a conference. You may find that you can clear up confusion or clarify a situation before it becomes a significant problem for your child. Save these emails and keep a record of your contact and conversations with the teacher.
Schedule a parent-teacher conference. If you have failed to improve the situation or correct school conflicts over email, arrange a face-to-face meeting. Make notes with any information you need to share or questions you may have. Enter the meeting with a positive attitude and a focus on working as a team to create a safe and productive educational environment for your child. Take notes during the conference.
Arrange a meeting with the principal. If you have not corrected the school problems with the teacher, it may be time to speak to the principal or vice-principal. Bring your notes and past correspondence with the teacher. Have a potential solution in mind, but be open to suggestions or alternatives.
Explore your options. If you have been unable to resolve a child-school conflict or parent-teacher conflict, you may want to determine what your legal rights are. In some cases, you may be able to transfer your child to another school in the district. If you feel that your child's needs are not being met, particularly in the case of a child with a disability, consider contacting local agencies that offer mediation support.
Go to the superintendent. If you have been unable to resolve school conflicts or a parent-teacher conflict within the school itself, you may need to work with those in power to correct the situation. In most cases, legal representation is not necessary, but you may wish to consider it if you are dealing with disability issues at the root of your school conflict.