Back to School Chaos: When Teachers Command Parents Like Kids

A recent morning conversation on Classic 105 FM, hosted by Maina Kageni and Mwalimu King'ang'i, has cast a spotlight on the increasingly strained relationship between teachers and parents as children return to school for the third term.

The radio discussion, which aired during a critical back-to-school period, uncovered shocking accounts of teachers allegedly speaking to parents in ways that "border on insults," treating them "like children".

The hosts, Maina Kageni and Mwalimu King'ang'i, engaged listeners on topical social issues.

A Troubling Trend in Parent-Teacher Relations

The discussion was prompted by WhatsApp messages from teachers to parents that left many wondering why such disrespectful communication is tolerated.

“It’s back to school, and I was shown some WhatsApp messages from teachers to parents, and I’m trying to wonder, why do you let teachers talk to you like you're a child? And if you are a teacher, why do you talk to parents like that?” Maina Kageni questioned.

Callers shared stories of being addressed rudely, sometimes even to their faces, with teachers making personal remarks about their children's intelligence or their own character.

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One caller recounted a teacher, who was also a neighbour, making derogatory comments about their drinking habits in front of their child.

Beyond verbal abuse, Maina highlighted what he called "cartels in school". These alleged cartels reportedly force parents to purchase books and uniforms from specific, often expensive, vendors.

There were also mentions of exorbitant charges for school trips, such as one parent paying KSh 3,500 for a trip to a local mall, TRM, which ordinarily costs only KSh 50 by public transport.

Why Parents Endure Disrespect

A key question raised during the show was why parents allow teachers to speak to them so disrespectfully.

The overwhelming response from parents pointed to a deep-seated fear of their children facing discrimination or suffering consequences in school if they do not comply

"If we don't comply it's our kids who are going to face the consequences they'll suffer on our behalf so why risk wecomply and life goes on," one listener, Lucia Mina, stated.

This sentiment was echoed by others, who felt that their children would be "bullied" or "victimized" if they stood up to teachers.

Furthermore, the "powerful" nature of educational institutions and teachers was cited as a reason for parental compliance. Changing schools is often not a viable option for many due to the significant financial burden of buying new uniforms and books.

Understanding Teachers' Conduct

The broadcast also questioned why teachers and school administrators adopt such an approach towards the very people "keeping your school life".

Some listeners described teachers as "terrorizing parents" and criticized education officials for being "ignorant" or unaware of the situation.

However, the discussion also touched on a counter-perspective, with a caller noting that "there are also very rude parents”.

This individual pointed out instances where parents react strongly to any criticism of their child, leading to confrontational situations on platforms like WhatsApp.

Calls for Respect and Accountability

Many listeners expressed a desire for a "cordial relationship" between teachers and parents, emphasizing that teachers should respect parents. As one caller stated, "teachers should know parents should be respected. If we had not brought their kids to that school, they'd not be employed. Don't talk to a parent like that, like that child you're teaching. Respect his paramount".

Maina Kageni urged listeners to share screenshots of abusive messages, highlighting the gravity of the issue.