Furious!! Can a teacher do this??

[koolaroo]

It has taken me 2 hours this morning to get my son into school, he is really down at the moment and really didnt want to go. However he went in and has rang me and told me one of his teachers told him she had never known anyone who had "lost the plot" like he has. He didnt kick off about it but is really angry and so am I. My son has been seeing a Camhs doctor since last August and is already really paranoid that people think he is a "freak". I havent got the full facts yet but I know other pupils heard her say this along with "you deserve to go to prison" (for a fight he had a while ago) and Im horrified that ANYONE could say this to a child with mental health issues.Ive rang the school and had the bog standard reply "we will investigate" but they break up for half term today and I just know they are going to hope that Ive forgotten about it by the time they go back. So angry!!

[mirry2]

I would write a letter of complaint backing up your verbal conversation (and refering to the date you called and who you spoke to). That way they can't 'forget') Hand deliver it so you can be sure it gets there.

[JiltedJohnsJulie]

Agree, with mirry. I would also state when you would like a reply by.

[clam]

Well, of course they have to investigate. What else do you expect them to say?
They will need to speak to the teacher concerned to find out exactly what was said and how it might have been interpreted, as well as to find witnesses and see what their take on it is.

And, slightly off-topic I know, but they might want to know how your ds was able to phone you whilst at school, remember. Do they not have a mobile phone ban?

[Heyyyho]

If they have said they will investigate they will, unfortunately it's half term but just wait for some feedback after holidays and try to have a calm break.

[koolaroo]

Thanks Mirry I have spoken to the school again and they have said it is going to be investigated properly and that other children have given statements, they have promised me that as soon as they have answers they will ring me so I will wait to see the outcome.
Clam I am not stupid, I expected them to say it would be investigated and I am well aware that they will need to speak to people involved I just wanted to rant a little and also see if anyone else had been in similar position. And no the school dosent have a mobile ban and he rang in his break is that ok with you??
Heyyyho thanks hun x

[mirry2]

I suggested that the op write because it has happened to me that I verbally complained about something just before an Easter holiday and the school failed to act as nobody admitted to receiving the complaint. I am now a firm beleiver in putting these things in writing.

[koolaroo]

There is already an ongoing issue with an investigation with the school so I have written a letter and sent it to the school and asked them to acknowledge the letter. I am on good terms with the pastoral teachers and we speak regularly so I know it wont be ignored by them.I just dont want this to have a knock on effect with my son and have him feeling lower than he does.Im just so glad its the half term hols now

[NanaNina]

I'm glad you have put your complaint in writing, because telephone conversations can't be recalled e.g "I don't remember you saying that on the phone." I think if the teacher has said this to your son (or any other pupil) that is appalling. How old is your son btw? Also I would insist on a meeting with the head. OK these are things that in the end will be your son's word against the teacher's word who will undoubtedly say she didn't say that or said something but nothing unkind. However you also say other children heard these remarks - is this what your son says. Unfortunately they may well have done but may not want to admit it when questioned, fearing they may be in trouble. A lot depends on the age of the pupils. I imagine you are talking secondary school pupils?

Don't forget that if you are not satisfied with the investigation's conclusions or feel that you are being "fobbed off" you can take your complaint to the Chair of the Governors andI think you are entitled to attend the part of the meeting where your complaint is discussed.

Do all the staff know about your son's MH problems- if not then they should be made aware and make the necessary allowances.

Hope you get this sorted out to your satisfaction.