He's the one who originally wrote, "I have become all things to
all people" (Corinthians).

We'd like to be that way. We work so hard in not playing
favorites and not irritating our students, that when we receive
negative feedback, it's an upsetting experience. But truthfully,
you've received positive feedback, from current students, former
students, school admin, coworkers, and I assume standardized test
scores.

This is ONE student, and you've stated that she has been non
communicative in class. She didn't open up at the beginning of
the semester. Now, she feels willing to talk. That's good, but
you don't have to roll over backward to agree with her.

Ultimately, you are the expert in the field. You have been out
in the big, mean world; you know what the rest of high school and
college and the work world wants, and you've successfully prepped
all the previous students for that world. So, class isn't
very "fun"; she doesn't get to "discuss" because there's more
writing, and the assignments are arriving on a daily basis.

Yes, that's high school, college, and the real world. You
serving your students well. When work is hard, it isn't fun.
That doesn't mean it won't become fun in the future, it's just
not fun now. Many life events are like that.

Here's how I'd handle this; request a conference. Tell her that
you have considered what she said. Based on her comments,
reflection, and some research and consultation, NO changes will
be made to the curriculum. Assignments match local, state, and
national standards, plus whatever you've gleaned from
experience. Discussion is fun, but you KNOW she needs more
analysis and composition work, so that's what she's getting. In
addition, you can respect her opinion that you aren't her
favorite teacher; however, you will continue to be the teacher
who delivers a true college-preparatory course.

Oh, any comments about other teachers are simply whining.
Prescribe that she get over herself and step into the new world.

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