You think your son’s history teacher is inflexible about enforcing the rules. The teacher disagrees.

Even in high school, parents and teachers may not always agree. But there are ways to disagree with a teacher and still maintain a good, respectful working relationship.

Here are some tips:

• Get the facts. Start by talking to the teacher. It may be that the teacher is not aware of the problem. It may be that your teen has misunderstood the teacher’s intentions. Hearing things first-hand will help you determine whether you really have a problem.

• Find out the school’s policy. If the teacher is enforcing a school policy, you don’t have a disagreement with the teacher. You may need to talk to the principal or the school board. If you know the teacher’s action does not follow school policy, you can discuss that with the teacher.

• Do not lose your temper. If you get angry, you are much less likely to reach agreement. Schools want to cooperate with parents. You make compromising much easier if you can stay calm.

• Find a good time to meet. Don’t charge into the teacher’s room at the end of the day. The teacher will be tired and you’ll probably both say things you regret. Ask for a meeting at a convenient time.

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