Dear Abby: Teacher asks if parents who text during conferences should be called out

An anonymous public school teacher wrote to the Dear Abby advice column to express frustration regarding parents who use cellphones during parent-teacher conferences and in their daily lives. The educator argued that this lack of attention contributes to children's misbehavior, arguments, and attention-seeking actions.

The letter highlights growing concerns among educators regarding parental distraction caused by mobile devices. By drawing a direct line between parental phone habits and children's behavioral issues at school, the teacher's submission serves as a public critique of modern parenting practices and calls attention to the need for greater engagement during critical developmental and educational moments.