20 Honest Insights from an Elementary School Teacher

home insemination kit

After seven years in the elementary education field, I’ve encountered a mix of incredible parents and a handful that have made me wish I could drop a few choice words. Now that I’m stepping away from teaching to be a stay-at-home mom with my newborn, I’ve decided to share some candid truths that teachers wish parents could hear.

1. Homework isn’t beneficial. I only assigned it due to district mandates. Sure, reading is important, but making it a chore can turn kids away from what should be a joyful activity. I saw no real academic difference between students who did their homework and those who didn’t. Kids learn more from socializing with peers than from rote learning at home.
2. Teachers aren’t in it to be harsh. The teaching profession isn’t about fame or money; it’s about a love for children and education. If your child feels I’m being “mean,” it’s likely because they’re facing consequences for not adhering to classroom rules. Structure and expectations show that we care about their learning journey.
3. Kids can stretch the truth. Your little angel may embellish or even lie to avoid punishment. If you’re concerned about a situation at school, please don’t rush to accuse the teacher without hearing the full story. It’s essential to teach kids that honesty is crucial; mistakes happen, but being truthful is more important.
4. Teaching is only a small part of the job. I envisioned a day filled with engaging lessons, but the reality involves countless meetings—many of which are unproductive. When you request a conference and it’s weeks away, it’s often because my schedule is tied up with administrative duties.
5. Principals can greatly influence a school’s environment. A supportive principal can uplift teachers, while a poor one can make coming to work a struggle. I’ve experienced both ends of the spectrum.
6. Kindness goes a long way. Teachers are more inclined to assist parents who approach us with respect. We’re all on the same side: wanting the best for your child. A polite request can often yield better results than a demanding one.
7. Elementary grades won’t determine college success. Seriously, a second-grade score isn’t going to ruin your child’s future academic opportunities. Admissions officers are more concerned with current abilities than past elementary grades.
8. Teachers enjoy unwinding. If you spot a teacher at a happy hour, consider buying them a drink—they’ve likely had a long day. Target gift cards are also a hit, as they can be used to buy something to help us unwind.
9. We have lives outside of school. While teaching is a huge part of our lives, we also cherish our family time. Don’t expect us to be on-call after hours as you wouldn’t anticipate your doctor responding to a late-night query.
10. Not every child deserves an award. Celebrating accomplishments is essential, but giving awards just for participation can diminish the achievements of those who have truly excelled.
11. Kids will pass along your opinions. If you speak negatively about a teacher, your child will likely share that sentiment, affecting their respect for authority in the classroom.
12. Cupcakes aren’t ideal. We love celebrating birthdays, but we’d prefer treats that are easier to manage. Consider snacks that are less messy, like fruit or cookies.
13. Standardized tests don’t reflect true learning. They often only showcase a student’s ability to memorize and regurgitate information, rather than their understanding of the material.
14. Let kids be kids. Overprotecting them can lead to anxiety. Children learn valuable lessons during unstructured playtime, and social interactions are crucial for their development.
15. No news is often good news. If you aren’t hearing from us frequently, it likely means your child is doing well. We’re always happy to discuss their progress if you reach out!
16. Trust our expertise. Teachers are trained professionals. If you seek our advice, please consider it seriously; we usually have your child’s best interests at heart.
17. Don’t use your child to compete with others. Every child has unique strengths. It’s disheartening to hear kids feeling pressured to meet comparison standards.
18. Rules apply to everyone. Whether it’s the carpool line or campus policies, following regulations fosters respect for authority.
19. Children behave differently in groups. They might act out in school due to peer influence. Learning from mistakes is part of growing up.
20. Involvement matters. Kids thrive when their parents engage with their school life. Attend events and show interest in their education—this greatly supports their success.

I’ve built wonderful relationships with many students and parents over the years. Teaching is demanding but incredibly fulfilling, and I hope these insights foster a greater understanding of the teaching profession.

For more insights on parenting and home insemination, check out our blog on at-home insemination kits at Cryobaby. You can also find helpful resources on fertility at Cleveland Clinic’s podcast and explore the BabyMaker for more on self insemination.

Summary: This article shares the realities of being an elementary school teacher, highlighting common misconceptions parents have about education. It emphasizes the importance of communication, trust, and understanding between teachers and parents for the benefit of the child.