Journal 6

1)      The director gave all of the child’s information to the teacher without discussing it with the mother.  The teacher posted the child’s information sheet and highlighted the father section when she should have just asked the mother about it privately.  She also told all of the other parents that Eric was a biter. The teacher from Eric’s old school gave all his records to the new school.  The teacher also discussed Eric’s behavior with the new director. 

2)      The two teachers talking on the playground should not be discussing children’s family issues with each other.  The teacher telling all the other parents that Eric was a biter violated his confidentiality.  All of Eric’s information should not have been shared with anyone.  It is the parent’s decision what information the school receives. 

3)      No, I do not think the two directors should have had a discussion.  If the new director thought it was necessary to speak to the old director then she needed to consult the mother first.  The old director violated confidentiality by sharing information with the new school.

4)      The mother and the new director should have been in the meeting.  After the mother and the director discussed all the issues, then the director should have met with the teacher and Eric’s mother together. 

5)      Yes, the teacher should have introduced Eric to the class and asked to them to be nice to their new friend.  The teacher could also have mentioned that everyone is unique and it is not nice to make fun of people who are different. 

6)      An introduction to the classroom would have made Eric’s day easier.  It is important for every new child to feel welcome and wanted.  Eric should not have been isolated at lunch.  Children should be able to have a comfort item from home if it makes them feel better.

7)      I do not think the conversation at the restaurant should have occurred.  You never know who is listening, such as a new parent.  It is not appropriate to discuss children outside of work especially when it is about the child’s personal family life. 

8)      The staff lounge would be a more appropriate place for such a conversation, but it still isn’t okay.  It is not appropriate to discuss a family’s personal matters amongst co-workers. 

9)      I think all staff members might need a re-training on confidentiality, welcoming new families and children, and what should and should not be discussed between co-workers.  I would apologize to the mother for everything that happened and ask if there was anything could do to help her. 

10)  No, in my opinion the mother should not leave her child there.  The child is never going to trust his teachers because he heard them talking about him.  He was embarrassed. He is not going to be comfortable with the other children because he was not even introduced to them properly.  He had all his personal items taken away and he cried his first day there.  I think the mother should find a better center for her child.