Top 10 Customer Service Complaints in Schools

I would like to say upfront that I really do like my parents and families.  I am a people person and you have to be to do my job.  However, over the years it is evident that parents are using a customer service mindset to approach school concerns and for many reasons this can’t be done.  Even if I sympathize or empathize with a parent I am bound by law, liability, board policies, student safety, privacy and much more.  The following list contains some of my favorite interactions with parents who were just looking out for their kid and they didn’t realize they were getting farther away from the end goal of fairness.  And for some that wasn’t the goal at all.

Top Ten Customer Complaints in Schools:

10.  Could you follow my daughter around today and make sure nobody picks on her?

9.  Can we just modify the grading scale?  He has had a bad year.

8.  Just tell the teacher to change the grade.  She’s never had an F before.

7.  (8th grade mother) Why can’t my daughter’s boyfriend pick her up for her doctor’s appointment?

6.  If you don’t let me see the video I’m calling the Regional Superintendent.  He’ll have your job.

5.  Could you tell my son’s stepmother she can’t pick him up from school?  We don’t get along.

4. My son told me that kids bring weed to school all the time and you don’t do anything about it. (During an expulsion hearing)

3. Parent: Why didn’t my daughter make the team? Me: maybe she’s not ready for this level of play yet.  Parent: Did you know that coach is a pedophile?  Me: And you let her tryout for his team?

2. I’m not going to complain because the teacher will take it out on my kid.

1. Playing time, playing time, playing time...

Again, I’m not poking fun.  If you are a parent reading this be sure to come to the table recognizing we are taking about PUBLIC schools.  Your experience in a conflict situation will be much better if you are looking for a fair and just end, not to be treated like a customer.  If your are a school employee, stop giggling.  You may need the same advice when it’s your child we’re talking about.