Concerning Note From the Principal

We received a note from the Principal from my daughter's school suggesting she find a different friend. This friend "Ashley" may not be a good influence on her. However, my daughter has difficulty making friends at school making me wonder if the Principal isn't telling other children to NOT play with my daughter. If children are misbehaving, is it really the best approach for the Principal to be isolating kids from their schoolmates?

I can understand your concerns about the principal possibly addressing your daughter's social issues using the wrong approach. No parent wants to see their child being treated differently and excluded from opportunities at school. I'm sure you must be really concerned about your daughters social development if she's had trouble getting along with other kids at school. Does she have trouble getting along with most other children, or only a certain few? It is normal, especially for girls the same age as your daughter, to gain and lose friends quickly. Have you tried meeting with the school counselor to discuss some of your daughters behaviors? It may help to get another objective opinion regarding whether "Ashley" is really treating your daughter badly. Try asking your daughter's teacher if she's seen the same things the principal was describing in their note to you.

If the principal is in fact using isolation as a way to deal with certain children's' behaviors then I would agree that they are not approaching this issue appropriately. Call and make an appointment with the principal so you can sit and discuss your concerns. Ask for clarification as to why they don't think it's a good idea for your daughter to spend time with "Ashley." You have every right as a parent to know why your principal feels this is the best way for your daughter to approach her friendship with Ashley.

If you want to talk to one of our crisis counselors further about your daughter's situation please know that you can call us 24/7 by calling 1-800-448-3000. I hope the meeting with the principal goes well and you are able to better understand the intent of the principal when they sent that note home with your daughter.

Sincerely,
Katie, Crisis Counselor

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