As a school administrator, I observed valuable practices of parents and teachers that profited students’ long-term academic advancement and spiritual growth. The intentional collaboration of parents and teachers form the best possible foundation for a child's educational journey. A critical component of the parent-teacher alliance is honor.  I discussed parents honoring teachers in part one.      

How can teachers purposefully honor parents?

Teachers serve a higher calling. Most people can quickly name the teacher who most influenced them. No other profession leaves as many indelible thumbprints on the hearts and minds of so many people.

Remember, God created all students in His image. They are His workmanship designed to do good works. What is the teacher's role in the development of each student’s character, gifts, and aptitudes? Will the teacher identify a special gift of character? Will the teacher give a unique strategy to overcome a roadblock to learning? Will the teacher inspire a life-calling in a student because of their passion for a subject? Teachers should augment their understanding of students by taking the time to get to know them through the lens of their parents. Parents provide valuable insight into the heart of a child. Parent questionnaires and parent-teacher conferences offer the perfect opportunity to gather detailed information regarding a child.

What should teachers do when a parent shares hard-to-hear information?

Lean in. Listen carefully. Ask questions.

Remember, we are on the same team. As a child’s #1 advocate, parents love and are committed to their child’s healthy growth. Parents have a valuable perspective that teachers need to hear. Parents are eyewitnesses to their child’s response to your classroom instruction and assignments. Sometimes a teacher thinks a task should take 20 minutes. However, when a parent contacts you and shares that the assignment took an hour and a half, it is time for the team to strategize. Both want the best for the child. Together, we can develop a strategy to resolve concerns. When teachers honor parents, parents will take a teacher's role and recommendations seriously.

How does honor enhance a parent-teacher relationship?

Honor authenticates the worth of another in tangible ways. Honor fortifies relationships, and motivates those who receive it. Ultimately when parents and teachers are in an honoring alliance, every child wins!

The English Standard Version (ESV) of the Bible translates Romans 12:10 like this:

Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.

Let’s take Romans 12:10 to heart and honor one another!