Teacher-Parent Communication

Parents can and will become involved in their children education when teachers take the time to reach out to them. This can be difficult and time-consuming, but well worth the effort. Some of the things teachers can do to engage parent are:

Parent Surveys

Reach out to the parents of students by sending home parent surveys during the first week of school. These surveys ask about their child and their goals for this year. Acknowledge the fact that they know their child best and help the parents see that we value their input while providing teachers with information we wouldn’t have known otherwise. When the parents come in for their first conference, use the completed survey to "break the ice" and to stimulate discussion. Send home parent surveys three weeks into the year asking parents to comment on how their child is adjusting to class and inviting them to relate any concerns they might have.

  Positive Phone Calls

 Make a positive phone call to each house at some point during the first nine weeks. Print out a list of student names in order to keep track and tell them about a good grade or some other success that their child experienced at school. This helps the parents feel more comfortable because they don't have to cringe every time they get a call from their child's teacher and lets the children know that you are communicating with their parents on a regular basis. A positive relationship with a parent can make a huge difference if problems arise later in the year.

Class Newsletters

Send home a newsletter every two weeks. In this newsletter, discuss current units of study and any reminders necessary. Include tips for parents on helping their children in math, reading, and writing and an invitation to visit our classroom. Get students involved in writing the newsletter, which allows them to improve their editing and writing skills.

Flexible Scheduling for Conferences

Make yourself available for conferences after five o’clock a couple of days a month and encourage parents to bring their younger children along if they have trouble getting a sitter. If you can't stay late or come in early, schedule a phone conference.