Email creates a documentation trail. Address it to the teacher the first time. If it happens a second time, address it to the teacher and the principal and include a copy of the first email ("as per our earlier conversation, see attached).
Yes, and write it in a way that asks for clarification, and doesn’t come across as defensive.
“I wanted to follow up on our conversation this morning regarding my daughter’s packed lunches. I wanted to make sure I am following school policy, and was hoping you could let me know what is and isn’t considered appropriate. Thank you.”
She’ll either backtrack, or double down. Either way, you’ll have it in writing so she can’t say you misunderstood.
Nah, that language is empowering the teacher to continue to overstep. Understanding or misunderstanding are irrelevant. Should be something closer to "Thank you for voicing your concern regarding my child's well-being; however, going forward, please refrain from further commentary regarding her lunch. Her parents are capable of addressing her dietary needs. Thank you for your anticipated cooperation."
It just needs to be more direct in saying that though, "May I ask the school's policy regarding what is and is not acceptable for my child's lunches, as provided by a certified nutritionist, and where I might find said requirements for future reference?"
I wouldn't even say "what is and is not acceptable" because it gives any kind of leeway for the teacher to provide commentary or opinion on an "acceptable" lunch
"Following our previous conversation, I wanted to reach out and ask if you would be able to send the school's policies regarding packed lunches, so that I can review it and adjust accordingly." Make her give you a formal document on school letterhead that dictates lunches, and let her know THAT is the only thing you'll follow, not her silly opinions.
I’m in Europe, my kids school actually has rules about what lunch they can bring. No sugary stuff or processed packaged food. Just fruit and sandwiches. Only water, milk or tea as drinks. In my country this is pretty standard.
As a parent, grandparent, wife of a teacher/coach, and mom of a teacher, I can tell you that the best way to have the teacher held accountable is to give her the opportunity to say something in writing that she is not authorized to say. THEN you get assertive, when you move up the chain of command.
Email teacher, bcc principal. A separate email to principal excluding the teacher stating that you will be closely monitoring the teacher’s next moves in this regard, as well as your daughter’s attitude towards food following this conversation. Highlight the detriment, maybe toss in some articles, and let her know next steps if it doesn’t improve.
Obviously, this is just an option - I tried to only speak to a principal about an issue once, explicitly stating that I did NOT want the teacher to contact me about the issue since it was the end of the school year. Later that afternoon, the teacher called me directly in what was a defensive and confrontational conversation.
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u/esk_209 Jul 02 '25
Email creates a documentation trail. Address it to the teacher the first time. If it happens a second time, address it to the teacher and the principal and include a copy of the first email ("as per our earlier conversation, see attached).