| Before asking for a formal review, it is important to consider the following questions: |
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Have you tried other, more informal ways to resolve this issue? |
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Will a formal review bring the best result for you or your child? |
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What do you expect from a formal review? |
The goal of informal dispute resolution is for both parties to work together to arrive at a solution that is agreeable to all. |
What can I do when my child has a problem with school?
In our schools, each student should feel welcomed, valued and included. We all work together to make our schools safe, positive, respectful places for each child to learn. There are times, however, when we may have different ideas about the way things could be done, and concerns could arise. |
| If you or your child is having a problem with school, it is important that all parties work together to solve it as quickly and fairly as possible. When problems are solved in a respectful, friendly, and co-operative way, a positive example is set for our children. A positive approach also works toward building good, strong relationships at home, in schools and communities. |
What do I do first?
The most important thing to do when you or your child is having a problem at school is to talk with the person who is most directly involved and most likely to be able to work with you to solve the problem. |
| Whom should I call? |
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Speak with the teacher first. |
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If the problem has not been resolved, speak with the principal. |
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If the problem still has not been resolved, find out if there is anyone else you could contact in your school district. The school should have contact lists and information. |
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If the problem still has not been resolved, speak with the superintendent. |
| A problem-solving process: |
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Decide whether the issue is worth pursuing. |
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Meet with the person directly involved in the issue. |
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Ask the person to describe how he or she sees the situation. |
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Describe the situation as you see it. |
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Summarize the issues that need to be resolved. |
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Discuss one issue at a time. |
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Brainstorm possible options for each issue. |
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Generate solutions(s) that work for everyone. |
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Put the solution(s) in writing. |
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Set a date to discuss how solutions are working. |
