Partners in Education during COVID19

Melinda m. Garcia

The parents in the home and the teachers in the school should have a sympathetic understanding of one another’s work. They should labor together harmoniously to benefit the children physically, mentally, and spiritually especially now that the COVID19 pandemic is halting a face-to-face modality.

The work of cooperation should begin with the father and mother themselves, in the home life. In the training of the children, they have a joint responsibility and it should be their constant endeavor to act together. Let them teach their children to be true to themselves and to all with whom they are connected. With such training, children when sent to school, will not be a cause of disturbance or anxiety. They will be a support to their teachers and an example and encouragement to their fellow pupils.

The teacher’s work should supplement that of the parents but is not to take its place. In all that concerns the well-being of the child, it should be the effort of parents and teachers to cooperate. The instruction given to the child in the home is to be such as will help the teacher. In the home, the child is to be taught the importance of neatness, orderliness, and thoroughness; and these lessons are to be repeated in school. The watchful teachers will opportunities for directing pupils. The teacher is regarded with confidence and respect by little children. Whatever he may suggest can hardly fail to bring forth fruits.

If parents faithfully act their part, the work of the teacher will be greatly lightened. His hope and courage will be increased. The parents’ intimate knowledge both of the character of the children and of their physical peculiarities or infirmities, if imparted to the teacher, would be an assistance to him. It is to be regretted that so many fails to realize this.

Since parents so rarely acquaint themselves with the teacher, it is more important that the teacher seek the acquaintance of parents. He should visit the homes of his pupils and gain a knowledge of the influences and surroundings among which they live. By coming personally in touch with their homes and lives, he may strengthen the times that bring him to his pupils, and may learn how to deal more successfully with their different dispositions and temperaments.

As he interests himself in the home education, the teacher imparts a double benefit. Many parents, absorbed in work and care, lose sight of their opportunities to influence for good the lives of their children. The teacher can do much to arouse these parents to their possibilities and privileges. By counselling together, both teachers and parents will be encouraged and strengthened.

The author is HeadTeacher

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l at Magsaysay Elementary School