EFFECTIVE PARENT-TEACHER COMMUNICATION Preventive Maintenance Kahina Parrish, Counselor

Overlapping responsibilities between home and school Motivation Homework Studying Communication Support (each other and the student)

Partner with teacher Effective communication begins with the belief that both the school & the teacher care about your child. What’s needed: A positive attitude Modeling respect & support for the teacher & school Willingness & flexibility when working with the teacher

Become comfortable with the setting (school & classroom) Chat informally with the teacher Become familiar with the classroom & school rules Reinforce the classroom management & discipline program at home Participate in a school activity or program for parents Talk to others who spend time at school Let your child see you volunteering at the school Speak respectfully about your child’s teacher & school

First Contact You can initiate communication with your child’s teacher or principal Parents can introduce themselves early in the school year. Communicate early with the teacher a) before school starts b) before problems arise (if a need is anticipated)

Communication Most grade levels have daily communication between the teacher & parent: -a take home folder or planner that should be read, signed, & returned daily When questions arise contact your child’s teacher via email or phone (the teacher will usually need to return your call) **before contacting the Principal or Counselor** Conferences: -Brief needs can be addressed in a short phone or email conversation -Longer needs require that an appointment be made

Teacher Communication Respond to teacher calls or emails in a timely manner Share the necessary information to assist the teacher or help resolve a concern Understand that all teachers are willing to work with student needs - must be aware of needs - receive cooperation from you & your child in school & at home

The Conference Read all relevant school & classroom information prior to meeting (e.g. planner, newsletter, report card, or notes home) Bring prepared notes or questions Listen carefully Ask all questions during the conference time (have examples if possible) Create a plan of action (specifically state roles) Set a time frame to meet again Follow-thru Be considerate of the conference beginning & ending times

After Implement suggestions Contact the teacher with questions Support the school & teacher Contact the teacher when another conference is needed

Closing Be prepared to initiate communication Read all information sent home Speak first with the teacher Understand teacher time constraints Model school & teacher respect Schedule appointments Respond in a timely manner Be open to feedback & give suggestions Follow-thru is essential

Supporting your child & May Elementary Questions Thank you for Supporting your child & May Elementary