Why is it that usually teachers and parents appear to click? They seem to have a common understanding of each other. Parent/teacher conferences often run over because the two groups enjoy sharing information and getting to know one another. Why is there this bond between many teachers and parents?

A big part of the rapport is they have a common focus. Both groups are concerned about the same children. Of course, the parents have a much deeper natural tie to these young people. However, teachers are extremely concerned for their welfare also. This similar interest gives the parents and teachers a good deal to talk about. In some cases, it also gives them a good deal to worry about.

Then there is the similar experience of working extremely hard for people who cannot reciprocate in kind. Parents and teachers put in long hours at work and at home to help the young people be successful. This hard work is often done on less than a full night’s sleep and often at the expense of other enjoyable past times. It is often beyond the call of duty. The reason it is done is also similar: They want the young people to find happiness and success.

Not only is the work ethic of these adults similar, so too is the reward they get for their hard work. Often this reward is solely the internal knowledge that they are serving. It is also the confidence they have that what they do makes a difference and will pay dividends for the youth – even when the youth are not aware of this contribution.

Related to the above, teachers and parents share a significant quality. Selflessness often describes their daily lives and their endless efforts. The old saying “a mother’s work is never done,” is not only true for the mother, but it is also true for countless teachers that cannot rest until they have done everything in their power to help children succeed.

Because of these important common characteristics, parents and teachers make great natural partners. When they team together, great things happen for children. This partnership is more than a nice additional support for young people. It is a necessary component in the children’s well being. Unless the parents and teachers are joined at the hip, figuratively speaking, young people will miss the great benefits that occur when home and school are working in unison.

So as we enter into a new school year, I encourage all parents and teachers to seek ways to enhance and strengthen your natural partnership. Both of you have much in common. This common ground will make you a powerful team especially if the student becomes a part of the learning triangle.

Though parents and teachers have a great deal in common, it is worth mentioning the advantages each group has over the other. First of all, parents do not have 25 or more children to be concerned about as do most teachers. On the other side teachers have the luxury of sending their charges home at 3:30. However, some teachers are also parents, so they do not enjoy either advantage!

Thanks to all you teachers and parents out there. You are the backbone of our society and its most valuable players. You are the great hope of our young and the greatest means of passing on our culture and our heritage to the next generation.

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