Somehow though these two ideals of thought do not always go hand in hand. An IEP meeting can often turn into a placing blame session rather than focusing on the child who the meeting is about. It seems to me that a large part of my meetings, phone calls, and letters home are often duplicated in order to inform both parents of their child's progress etc. I believe that as a classroom teacher, one should promote parental involvement to the greatest extent. I may be bitter, but I just don't see how a parent would not want to be involved in such an important meeting.
Parental involvement is the key for success when it comes to education.
I try to keep the lines of communication open with my parents by placing a phone call at least once a month to state something positive that their child has recently done. Most parents are receptive. Parents view about their role in their child's education affects their involvement in school. And if not discouraged, then it surely isn't encouraged. Having only taught 1st grade during my teaching career, I am convinced from having talked with hundreds of parents that they really do care about their children regardless what we see and hear in the media.