With our school, the first time that we met, we had a written request so it was pretty easy to be nonchalant about it (signed Mr. Dad and Dr. Mom). Not to mention that the super is Dr. Super (PhD) and several people that we met with are working towards their PhDs. So we didn't have to be that blunt about it. We just made sure all paperwork was formally addressed. It probably also helps that I am not a PhD (or MD) so I can present it without seeming elitist.

JB