It’s a brand new year, which for parents means stocking up on fresh new notebooks, pencils, and most importantly: new clothes for the school year. How many special requests did everyone get from their child/children? It’s an exciting/stressful/fun time that is sure to come around every September like clockwork. One way to ensure the school year goes off without a hitch is great communication; here are some tips for excellent parent-to-teacher communication throughout the year.

• There might be a time when you don’t agree with a grade that comes home with your student. It might be on a poem, story, quiz, or assessment of behavior. If you are having a difficult time understanding a grade or just disagree with it, let us know directly. As teachers, it is our job to communicate with parents. Let’s try to work it out together before escalating to a supervisor unnecessarily.
• Teachers juggle a fair amount of students every day and as students get older, the more students we have throughout the day. Sometimes we are able to email during certain breaks in the day, others of us prefer to make phone calls towards the afternoon when we know parents are most likely out of work. Communicating in the most effective way for your teacher is the best way to ensure you get prompt response.
• Different classes and grades require different supplies. These aren’t always sent out in the summer, so feel free to ask if you don’t receive a list. Making sure your child is prepared for the activities ensures that they get the most out of their education. Most supplies can be bought at discounted stores like Job Lot and the Dollar Tree, but if you run into a pricey item (like calculators), I always try to buy used either online or thrift shopping for half the price.
• If you are looking to be a volunteer, reach out! We are always looking for parents to jump in as needed for field trips, special activities, and class projects. Some parents can only help out certain days or hours of the week, so the more volunteers the better!
• Remember, you can always write a note and send it in with your child. We will answer any questions and send a note home with them. If you have any questions about class rules, when open house is scheduled, parent-teacher conferences, afterschool programs…you name it! We are here for you.

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