Was this abit off?

[goldenlilliesdaffodillies]

I am a parent of children at a school. I also teach there but only a few hours a week.
I attend a course with other parents who are in one of my child's class. Whilst getting ready some Mums were gossiping. I never get involved in this or say anything about school either, but am always friendly. However as I came nearer they started whispering and turning their backs on me in a very obvious way. It was all rather unpleasant so I asked if everything was OK. They then turned on me saying "We'd never tell you- you're a teacher" and other "us and them" stuff which made me feel really silly and about 12 again. They then moved away, continued whispering and blanked me for the rest of the class. It sounds ridiculous but left me feeling really uncomfortable and wondering whether I should leave this class and other social type things where parents from the same school go.

Has anyone else experienced this and how did you handle it?

Thanks

Oh god how ridiculous they sound. Bugger off and rise above it. They aren't worth your time.

Not surprised you're hurt. It's totally natural but Jesus, are they 12?

These are parents in their 40's! At least I know where I stand now with these people. Sometimes I wish I taught in a different school to my children.

What is it with SOME parents walking into school and then reverting to childish behaviour?!

I'm also a teacher, although currently a SAHM. My childrens school asked if I'd do some supply/ppa at their school and I refused it, exactly for the above reasons. Also, I think sometimes it can be awkward for staff too. It may also become tense if an issue or problem surrounding my dds ever arose and had to don my parent hat!

A few years ago I was chatting with some parents of the school I used teach at, and to which our own children went.

I stupidly let slip an opinion I had over a school policy change. This found its way back to the SMT and I was then given a bit of a bollocking.

I learnt a lesson.

I am in no way at all suggesting that you would be as negligent as I was, and I do still maintain friendships with other parents. But I am now very careful as to what I let slip and to any opinions I may hold.

Fortunately, all of my current set of friends in this position understand entirely, I have not been put in an awkward position.

(This is at an international school; gossip can be extremely pernicious. I'm so glad I am at my present school.)