Attending meetings at school wasn’t really my cup of tea. I used to think it was just a hindrance, especially for busy parents, and that the agenda weren’t really that important. That’s what I also heard from many parents before,they avoided school meetings. Back when I was in high school, my parents also rarely attended any meetings.
I remember attending one meeting when I was still single, for my younger brother. I had no idea what it was about and honestly didn’t care much. I was just there for the attendance.😅
But now that I’m a parent, my perspective has changed. When the Teacher informed me about the meeting, I immediately thought of attending because I didn’t want to miss any updates about my child or the school. At first, I had doubts about going and even considered sending someone in my place because there was no one to watch my child while I attended and the teacher also advised not to bring children to the meeting because they might be a distraction.
Thankfully, I asked my husband if I could leave our child at his workplace in the morning. Sometimes he’s not that busy, and since his office is just in the city near our home and our child’s school, it seemed doable. Luckily, his manager who’s also a mom and sometimes brings her own child to work, allowed it.
So here I was, walking with my child for about five minutes to my husband’s workplace. After dropping my child off, I walked another five minutes to the school, rushing a little since it was already past assembly time.
When I arrived, I thought the meeting had already started, but thankfully, it hadn’t yet. I still had time to relax a bit.
Soon after, the Teacher began the meeting by having us introduce ourselves ,our names, our children’s names, our jobs, and our expectations for our kids. I said I didn’t have high expectations for my child. I know his abilities and that he needs guidance and improvement. I don’t expect him to be the best student in class. All I know is that I’ll support him as much as I can.
After the parents introductions, the Teacher also introduce herself, her principle and what kind of Teacher she is, she's pretty impressive.
Then the Teacher proceeded with electing classroom officers who will manage the school, classroom updates, activities, and more. And guess what? I was voted as President! because other parents said they often see me at school waiting and always present to fetch my child❤️ I never expected it and even asked, “Are you sure? Any other nominations for president?” But among the three parents nominated, most of the votes went to me. So, I became the President🎉 I felt like an achiever❤️
Then the teacher let me take over to continue facilitating the election of other officers.
Once all the officers were elected, the Teacher discussed the main agenda: school and classroom rules, parents’ and guardians’ responsibilities, students’ updates and needs, contributions, and other important matters.
We spent about an hour and a half discussing everything. I won’t go into all the details here, as this is already quite long, all I can say is the agenda went well and the Teacher well communicated and explained everything.
Finally, the important part where I took over about the classroom project, we talked about the Teacher's proposed project, a printer and ink. The Teacher explained how important it is since students need printed activities and assignments every day. Printing individually daily would cost more in a year, so a printer and ink project would be a best option to save money.
Last school year’s printer project had also broken down from constant use, so they really needed a new one.
The project would be shared between the morning and afternoon classes, so the contribution from each parent wouldn’t be too heavy. I also opened the floor to suggestions for other projects incase they have objections about the printer & ink, but everyone agreed as the printer and ink were the most necessary.
A parent volunteered to canvass for an affordable but good-quality printer and gave an estimated price. We computed how much each parent in both sessions needed to contribute. Everyone was satisfied with the amount, as it was reasonable.
We wrapped up the meeting smoothly and felt happy with the outcome.
I forgot to mention that my child goes to a public school, so meetings like this and contributions are expected. Parents and teachers need to help and support each other for the students’ sake.
I felt grateful after the meeting, not just because I was chosen as President but because I was seen as a present parent, I also fully understand and appreciate everything discussed. Most parents who don’t attend often end up complaining with the school updates or contributions because they don’t really understand what’s going on. That’s why it’s so important to show up, even for the little things to be well informed, especially when it comes to our children.
Last pic, I walked to my husband's workplace already and fetched my child and then went home❤️
This day was truly productive. Thanks for stopping by and reading!
Note: Photos were taken using my Realme6i Android Phone and with the help of Canva for editing.