19 April 2023 , 16:39
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A teacher's clear-cut message to parents struggling with their teenagers during exam season has divided opinions. The educator sent out letters reminding parents just how stressful this period is for their children - and urged them to congratulate them even if they don't achieve their desired grades.
However, not everybody is impressed with her "positive" message, with some parents claiming you shouldn't award "mediocracy". The letter, which has been shared on Reddit, starts: "The exams of your children are to start soon. I know you are all really anxious for your child to do well. But, please do remember, amongst the students who will be sitting for the exams there is an artist, who doesn't need to understand math.
Her 'positive' message didn't go down quite as intended (Getty Images)"There is an entrepreneur, who doesn't care about history or English literature.
"There is a musician, whose chemistry marks won't matter.
"There's an athlete whose physical fitness is more important than physics."
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The teacher warned parents against taking away their children's confidence if they don't achieve top grades - and to instead reward them for trying.
"If you child does get top marks, that's great," the letter adds. "But if he or she doesn't, please don't take away their self confidence and dignity.
"Tell them it's OK, it's just an exam. They are cut out for much bigger things in life.
"Tell them no matter what they score, you love them and will not judge them."
Sharing their views on the teacher's message, one parent said: "You might not judge them, but the university they apply to much later in life definitely will.
"Their boss someday will expect a project to be done with precision and the excuse that they are an athlete or an artist, and therefore far more important, just isn’t gonna fly in the real world.
"I’m not trying to say that this isn’t a nice thing to express to a child, however, it should be patently obvious that parents tell their children often that their love for them is unconditional, and that trying their very best and studying diligently is what matters the most.
"The fact that this concept has to be spelled out so clearly to these morons in this fashion does not really make me smile.
Another added: "Great letter. What a positive person to motivate you and your children, and relieve the stress most will feel."
"Rather, it makes me shake my head and wonder what the hell is actually going on with parenting in this country!"
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A third parent said: "There are at least five reasons it's a stupid letter, even though the intent was likely well-meaning.
"Your artist should know some math. Your athlete isn't going pro. Your entrepreneur should know how to write and know a little history. I could go on."
One more added: "I wish this kind of energy could have been around 20 years ago."