Teachers these days hear nothing but a litany of excuses that parents make on behalf of their kids... and/or deal with parental denial ("Oh no! My little Johnny would never do such-and-such.") So it must be refreshing for a parent to stand with the teacher in the face of a disciplinary issue.
How wise you are Dandy. This is so true! Working in public schools as a social worker I have heard it all...and I have to say it makes me really think on how to approach teachers because they really do get beat up for everything. A lot of my job has to do with intervening between parents and teachers when there are communication issues and misunderstandings. Granted, there are some bad teachers out there...but a lot has to with miscommunication. Teachers have had to deal with such criticism that yes it does make them defensive and somewhat abrupt at times. I figure my child is with this person most of the day, it's best to have the best relationship that we possibly can.
I guess it's just the vehemence of the continued interaction that has got me puzzled - ds didn't write a note of apology, and although there wasn't a chance for discussion, the incident was acknowledged and the teacher said "fresh start, ok?" But it doesn't seem like there is a fresh start on his part.
Hope that the teacher is able to let go and move past it...but unfortunately it sounds like both the teacher and your DS are kind of at standstill. DS upset because teacher isn't moving on and teacher is upset because DS is not cooperating with what he wants him to. I think they are both going to have to give a little.
