You can send parents a letter or email about the school program, such as the classroom curriculum and any school events. You may also reach out to parents through a phone call or by speaking with them in person.
For instance, say, “Dear Mrs. Parker, your son Peter enjoyed using the classroom computer and I think this typing program can help him learn more. ” For example, a phone call or individualized email can give a teacher a chance to start a direct conversation with a parent. To be engaging, refer to parents and students by name. Relate information that the parents are interested in, such as their child’s classroom work and school events.
For instance, say, “Hello Mrs. Parker. Your son Peter says he likes drawing. I’m happy to have him here this year and eager to see what he creates. ” Positive communications are easiest in the beginning of the year. Don’t wait until you have to discuss a student’s disciplinary problem to contact parents. Some communications will be negative. Try to handle these quickly and calmly.
For example, don’t mention “Common Core” or “Key Learning Areas. ” If you have to talk about it, explain it in simple terms anyone can understand. Mentioning “resource-based” teaching methods is not descriptive. Explain what the students are learning and experiencing. Talking about “no excuses” policies and “achievement” sounds cold and doesn’t address students and parents on an individual basis. Instead, say, “Your child is learning a special way of doing math that allows her to add numbers in her head. This will help her succeed both inside and outside of school. ”
As a teacher, you can say, “What do you hope your son learns in English class? What can we do to help him learn?” A principal may ask, “Do you have any concerns about the educational process?” You can alter school policies or provide help to students who need it. Work together with the parents to set goals, such as spending more time at home studying math or meeting with the teacher each week.
For instance, talking to a parent who doesn’t speak your language is difficult. A school administrator can hire a translator to help. Some parents may work odd hours or hold down multiple jobs. A teacher may offer to meet them for a discussion during a lunch break or after school. Some parents may not be comfortable chaperoning a group of children. Encourage them to get involved in other ways, such as by buying supplies.
For instance, many school administrators send school policy handbooks home at the beginning of the year. Many teachers provide a curriculum overview. Teachers can also send home notes throughout the year explaining each child’s progress.
School administrators can provide a basic overview of these skills. Teachers can offer more details about what they will teach in class. For example, a young student might be expected to know how to read as well as add numbers. An older student may be expected to have a grasp on basic algebra and read proficiently.
For example, the school staff can create a newsletter that keeps families up to date on school events. As a teacher, you may send home notes. Say, “Tony learned how electricity works. You can help him study the worksheet I gave him to take home. ”
For example, the principal can post about school policies and link to outside resources such as government agencies or tutoring services. If possible, keep a separate page for each classroom. Each teacher can keep parents updated about what goes on in their classroom.
The principal or another faculty member can take care of a school blog and respond to any concerns posted in the comment section. If you are a teacher, set up a blog for your classroom. It is a good way to stay in touch with parents and let them know what’s going on in class.
This allows parents to stay up to date on what children need to do in class. It eliminates confusion and negative notes home.
Both the principal and teachers can be a great time to talk about school events and volunteering opportunities. Get to know the parents to build a positive relationship. There usually isn’t time at open houses to have extensive conversations.
Teachers can be involved with multiple meeting nights throughout the year. If you’re a teacher, you may also want to invite parents to meet with you at other times. If you’re the principal or an administrator, consider being present to greet parents and make them feel welcome.
For instance, if you are an art teacher, parents can help cut paper or show children how to use supplies. Volunteers can take some of the pressure of running a classroom off a teacher. However, remember that not all parents have time to participate.
For example, a principal might inform parents, “The school’s bake sale is next month and any baked goods are welcome. ” If you’re a drama teacher, you might say, “We need parents to help make the costumes the kids designed. ” An science teacher might say, “We need chaperones for our field trip to the science museum next month. Please contact me to sign up!”
If you’re a teacher, you can supervise students and have them write notes to thank parents for attending. For instance, if you’re a language teacher, you can send home a note that says, “The students wrote stories for class and now they would like to share their work with you. ”
For example, if you’re a drama teacher, invite parents with woodworking skills to help build stage props. If you’re a social studies teacher, you might ask a police officer to come in and share knowledge about their line of work.
For example, ask for boxes of tissues, craft supplies, or computer software. You can put volunteer opportunities on the list. Include short commitments, such as stapling newsletters, in addition to long ones like organizing events.
A resource center may include information on topics like child development, nutrition, and drug education.
For instance, if you’re a principal, bring in speakers from a government agency or university extension office. If you’re an art teacher, for example, you can lead a family painting night, talk about why art is important, and greet parents.
