Can anyone advise? Difficult situation

[GetStuffezd]

Hello all,
I'm teaching a truly lovely year six class that's the result of two amalgamated classes: one mainstream and one special needs class. The kids have integrated brilliantly on the whole, and I'm so pleased with them. But I have had some quite shocking conversations with a couple of parents, who are unhappy at their children being seated near "those children" for various lessons.

I don't know what I can do - I'm certainly not about to segregate the class and many of the children from the SEN class are on a par with the main streamers. I'm going to email the Head this weekend, but any tips in the mean time? I feel thoroughly depressed at some of the attitudes I've encountered this week.

[tethersend]

I would start taking parents to one side and praising their children for the amazing way they have integrated with their peers. Say how impressed you've been, and could they please reinforce this brilliant attitude at home. Also say how pleased you are with their academic progress, but mainly lots of aren't-you-amazing-parents-for-producing-such-a-considerate-and-clever-child, when in fact we all know that they are intolerant self centred wankers. This should have the effect of embarrassing them if nothing else.

Inform the head so she can take further action if necessary.

[GetStuffezd]

That's a great way to approach it, tether, thanks. Probably too late for the person today who has made their wishes regarding their child's seating arrangements absolutely clear, even if it means a considerable drop in much needed support... but probably subtle enough to shame some of the "hint droppers."

[GetStuffezd]

Although actually, part of me feels why should I be dictated to in that way? Children are ALWAYS going to have to sit with people they don't know or are friendly with.

[tethersend]

The parent does not get to say where their child sits, no. On that front, I would consult the head.

You'd have to balance it against your need for a quiet life, though.

What arseholes.

[GetStuffezd]

Yes, will discuss with her ASAP. It really is interesting that the children went into this year head first with a "we are one class" attitude, and SOME bloody horrible people are the way they are.

And I am privately looking forward to the first set of assessments later in the year, as a couple of the kids from the SEN class are bloody brilliant at maths, in particular.

[tethersend]

Don't forget to give yourself some credit for that

[GetStuffezd]

Ha! I can't really - my motto at the start of the term was treat them all equally horribly!

[lilackaty]

I think if you have any more contact or comments from this person you should just refer them straight to the Head without . And if they are willing to sacrifice support in order that their child moves seats (I think I read that correctly) then that says a lot about them.
And you really must take lots of credit as, obnoxious parents aside, it sounds like it is all going well.

[lilackaty]

I really should proof read before I post. The end of the first sentence was meant to read...without even acknowledging what they are saying or responding to it in any way.