DW credits me for being able to keep an emotional even keel during these kinds of meetings, and as a result I end up doing most of the talking (she starts getting upset and then doesn't trust herself to speak without making things worse). I maintain by keeping a singular focus on our purpose. The school is likely to ambush or distract us with a whole lot of complaints that have no relevance, and I have a habit of redirecting the conversation back to what we're all there to do.
The school isn't happy? Not my concern. I'm not there to provide the adults in the room with happiness. I'm there to ensure my child gets an appropriate education. Any conversation topics that don't relate to that aren't really worth my time.
Thanks! Have you ever walked out of a meeting if you felt that your time was being wasted?
