Disagreement exists between adoptive parents regarding whether teachers should be informed that a child is adopted. Some parents do not reveal the situation because they feel that teachers may have a bias one way or the other. Other parents think the teacher should know the history of the child, including any past issues.
Adoptive parents can do several things to increase the level of sensitivity that school personnel exhibit toward adoption issues. Providing teachers, counselors, and principles with information regarding positive relevant language and encouraging them to use it is a good start. Donating a book about adopting to the school library or, for international adoptees, one about the culture of the child’s home country may also be helpful.
Some adoptive parents take a more direct approach by making a presentation regarding adoption at a faculty meeting. In some cases, they present jointly with an experienced worker from the local adopting agency. Children may encounter other types of loss issues similar to adopting issues, making the information relevant to the entire student body.
Local adoption conferences may be open to the public and adoptive parents should encourage teachers to attend. The adults can also promote the formation of an adopted child support group, similar to the group for children of divorced parents. If a curriculum review committee exists, adoptive parents should volunteer to be on it. This is one way to ensure that positive messages regarding adopting are incorporated into the curriculum.
Upon request, the National Adoption Information Clearinghouse will distribute information regarding adopting to schools. Adoptive parents should obtain additional relevant information from national organizations like the National Adoption Center, the North American Council on Adoptable Children, and Adoptive Families of America. By educating school faculty and staff regarding adopting, adoptive parents make the school years easier for their children.
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