An Open Letter To Parents Getting Ready For Back To School

As I was scrolling through my Facebook this morning, I saw a post from one of my friends reminding parents to be smart about what they're purchasing for back-to-school.

I'm no teacher, but I do have common sense and a pretty solid opinion on the matter, so here goes...

Dear Parents,

It's the end of August, so I'm sure by now you're feeling the pressure that comes with getting ready for the new school year. While teachers may not be the first to say this to you, I have no problem expressing their sentiments. Please make sure when preparing to send your child back to school for the 2018-2019 school year, you're keeping not only your own priorities, but also your child's, very straight.

I imagine there's nothing worse than standing at the front of your classroom, eager to introduce new subject-matter, only to discover that some of your students aren't properly equipped to learn. School supplies are important. If you're a parent sending your child to school with the hottest sneakers on the market, but no book bag, pencil case with writing utensils, or proper nourishment for lunch, you're doing it wrong. All you're doing is inconveniencing not only the educators and your own child, but other children as well. How? Well, since you're child is unprepared, he or she must now resort to asking classmates to borrow their fresh supplies. Trust me, when little Jack or Jessica runs home and tells mom and dad that your child borrowed three of their pencils in one day, I promise you'll have an issue on your hands before too long.

I'm a firm believer that school is a place for learning, not for a fashion show. Don't get me wrong, you're free to dress your child however you want, but if you're doing it at the expense of their education, there's an issue.

Please, be smart, parents. It's not even about the teacher, it's about your child. No kid likes to feel embarrassed in class because they were sent to school without the supplies they needed. Set your kids up for success this year by making sure they're prepared with the things that matter. Surely, you can sacrifice an expensive pair of shoes for a more functional pair if it means you're child will get a decent backpack.

Sincerely,

A concerned bystander.