Well, I sent an email to the room parents re: class gifts

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Bxgell2
Perfection

Member since 5/05

16438 total posts

Name:
Beth

Well, I sent an email to the room parents re: class gifts

I recognize I may soon become the least favored PTO mom ever, but I'm ok with that Chat Icon

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Dear Room Parents:

It has come to my attention that some parents have concerns about the new process for the end-of-year class gifts. I hope that each of you understand that this decision was not made on a whim, but after a lengthy discussion. Recognizing that the process has not worked fairly in the past, and has put several parents in an uncomfortable position, our goal in changing the process was to ensure that we recognize the contribution each teacher makes to each child in this school, while lessening the burden on the parents who cannot afford to contribute during these hard economic times. Personally, I was asked to advance two distraught parents during the holiday gift season, and I hope that we all recognize the importance of avoiding this kind of humiliation for anyone at our school. I think we can all agree that the philosophy and environment at this school is unique; we are a family and the bond of this small community is unlike any other. Every teacher in this school has a role in influencing each child, and works hard to make this a positive environment, which should be recognized across the board. Our goal in changing the process is to align the class gift with that community environment of this school, and to recognize each teacher’s contribution to our children’s lives.

I understand that a few room parents have expressed their desire for their class to “opt-out” of the class gift this year; while I recognize that some may disagree with the process, I must remind you that it is not appropriate for the room parent to make that decision for the class. More importantly, however, this would severely disrupt the purpose and functioning of the process. In order for it to work successfully, we all need to stay consistent and move forward together as a unified group. Therefore, if any room parent does, in fact, intend to opt their class out of the class gift this year, we will have to forego the entire process for the entire school, and instead, ask that everyone do gifts on their own this year. Time is of the essence to inform parents of this decision, so, if this is your intention for your class as room parent, please let me know by the end of the day.

We understand that this process is new and may not be welcomed by everyone. However, I do know that this process has worked successfully at other schools, which is our hope for our school as well. I am asking everyone to allow us the opportunity to see if this new process will work for our school this year. I can assure you that, if it does not, we will certainly reconsider the process moving forward, and, as always, will ask that you provide your feedback and input to ensure that your voice is heard during the decision-making process. And, as always, if you feel strongly against the new process, you may certainly do something that you feel is more appropriate, on an individual basis. But, I must ask that you remember that your decision is your own, and should not be representative of your class.

If anyone has continuing concerns, I must stress the importance of speaking with me directly. You can reach me by email or phone.

Thanks,
Beth

Posted 5/19/11 12:20 PM