( CNN ) -- Teachers and parents share a common purpose : educating children . But differing beliefs , expectations and methods can make collaboration more challenging . A 2011 story published on CNN.com by author and teacher Ron Clark , entitled `` What teachers really want to tell parents , '' looked at reasons why educators give up on their field . He asserted that negativity from parents places undue pressure on teachers and advised greater cooperation . `` We are educators , not nannies , '' Clark wrote . `` We are educated professionals who work with kids every day and often see your child in a different light than you do . If we give you advice , do n't fight it . '' His opinion consistently resonated with readers over the next couple of years , which made it one of CNN 's most-shared stories on Facebook . The story has been recommended more than 898,000 times . Clark founded the Ron Clark Academy in Atlanta and was named `` American Teacher of the Year '' by Disney and a `` Phenomenal Man '' by Oprah Winfrey . But even Clark 's status as a leader in his field did n't fully explain why this story captivated people , so CNN revisited the idea with Facebook users last week by asking them to finish this sentence : `` The one thing parents/teachers really need to know is _____ . '' Readers responded enthusiastically with more than 750 thoughtful posts . Their answers revealed stewing frustrations from teachers and parents alike . A few teachers described parents who seem like they are n't doing enough to help their children . Parents chimed in , too , with some saying teachers should use different strategies to reach students . The comments from the two groups created a spirited discussion that resembled a virtual parent/teacher conference . The exchange coincides with the time of year when many classrooms are having such meetings . Several respondents indicated a need for cooperation , with teachers and parents as allies . `` Parents need to know we 're in it for the kids ; obviously not for the money , '' said Facebook user and Florida teacher Cindy Hoffman . `` We 're in a partnership , trying to do the best for the children as possible . Please do n't treat us as adversaries . '' Some parents expressed a desire for greater connection with schools . `` Teachers need to know that some parents do care and want to be involved , '' wrote Dana Fabrocini Dentino . `` Also , the kids who do their work and are well behaved -- they need some attention , too . '' And some readers , like Tiffany Jean Williams-Solod , can relate to both worlds . `` As a parent , teachers , I want my child challenged every single day , and if she does n't get it , tell me so I can assist you , '' she wrote . `` Do n't be afraid to tell me if my child disrespects you . '' She , too , joined the many impassioned cries for greater cooperation . `` As a teacher ( oh yes , I am both ) I want parents to stop blaming teachers and start working with us , '' Williams-Solod said . `` We ca n't fix everything , but remember we are humans and we are n't perfect . Also , teach your kids to respect us . '' Click through the gallery to read more perspectives in this digital parent/teacher exchange . What do you think about this list , and what would you add ? What do you think is most important for parents or teachers to know ?
Ron Clark 's original article was shared more than 1000 times on Facebook . ` ` What teachers really need to tell ' '' became one of CNN 's most - watched stories . CNN asks readers what parents or teachers really need to know . What do you think ? Comment below .