How to Answer: Tell me about a time you dealt with an upset parent or guardian.
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Reading Teacher job interview.
21. Tell me about a time you dealt with an upset parent or guardian.
How to Answer
Unless you are brand new to teaching, you have likely experienced an upset parent or two. Share about a time when you experienced an upset parent and how you met their needs or reassured them. Try to choose an example in which you were not the reason the parent was upset. Maybe they were upset about a lack of communication coming from the school or their child's interaction with a peer. Whatever the scenario, assure the interviewer that you are able to listen and respond to the parent's needs.
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021
Answer Example
"Last year, a parent called me very upset about the schedule for parent/teacher conferences. She wasn't able to make either night, due to work, and was frustrated that there were no other options to connect with her child's teachers. I assured her I would make time to meet with her at a separate time and would assist in setting up the rest of the conferences as well. The parent was able to meet with me and her son's other teachers a week before parent/teacher conferences, and she greatly appreciated me taking the time to meet her needs."
Written by Audra Kresinske on September 6th, 2021