Advice from a Teacher re: taking kids out of school for Disney

[tetrimble]

As the OP I figured I would pop back in to respond.

It was never my intent to tell people to grovel or ask permission to take their children to Disney. Yes, I used the word "apologize," but it was meant in the polite sense. Just like when I emailed a parent last night who had sent in a note seeing if we could meet today and said, "I apologize, but I won't be able to meet with you tomorrow, but I already have a conference scheduled at that time." I was not groveling...just being polite.

Also, I did not intend to start a debate about taking kids out of school. I thought it was clear in my post that I see very clearly why parents opt to vacation at different times of the year. I understand and support that.

My point was simply to share things from a teacher's perspective. Clearly, I am not speaking on behalf of all teachers, but I am sharing common views of those I've worked with. Do with that info what you wish. If it was helpful...then great. If it was not, then please know it wasn't a personal attack on you or your parenting styles.

I really enjoyed this thread. Although it may have veered a bit from your intent, it was interesting to read everyone's opinions on the topic.

In addition, I loved your input from a teacher's perspective. I hope you have not received rude PMs because of your comments. They were very thoughtful and well written...and I believe most of us that have replied appreciated your letter suggestion.

 

[casey49781]

Hats off to all the teachers as its a tuff job..That said I am taking my kids out of school dec 4 to the 11 , mine will miss 6 days of school, hoping for a snow day in there,,,I already ..today have my dd 9 school work she brought it home to work on it today and it is a ton of stuff so will have most of it done my monday morning, i really appreciate all her teacher has done so that so wont get behind, that said she is in 4th grade and a honor roll child , my son is in kindergarden and i havent seen anything come home yet so will head to school monday morning to check that out,,,,,,cant wait i leave in 9 days,,,,

 

[barbmouse]

Thanks to the OP...well stated!

I find it interesting that no one has mentioned the child's perspective. We go to DW every other year and took trips during the school year through my dd's second grade year. We decided in fourth to begin vacationing in the summer. My dd is now in eighth grade and would not WANT to miss a week of school. She has not missed a day of Middle School (luckily she hasn't been really sick). If she has a cold I will tell her to call me if she feels bad. She rarely will because she doesn't want to make up the work. She is a very good student and very conscientious. We cruised this past summer and choose a 4 day rather than 7 day because we had to sail in the summer and had to do what we could afford.

I agree with many posters who said just do what is right for your family and what is in the best interest of your children!