As we approach the end of September, I find myself reflecting on the many channels of communication between school and home. As a parent of four Independence students, I too receive weekly Patriot Page emails, classroom newsletters, emails from teachers, and have sporadic conversations with staff at Extended Care pick-up. With so much contact from the school, I am left to consider what the school needs to hear from me? The primary point of contact between my household and the school is with my students’ classroom teachers.

To that end, I’d like to suggest four strategies that I’ve found enhance the Parent-Teacher partnership:

Maintain Open Lines of Communication

Regular communication between home and teachers keeps everyone informed. Teachers are most accessible via email so reach out with questions or concerns.

Be Proactive

Be proactive about your student’s needs. Students spend the bulk of their day away from our campus. Informing the teacher about any recent changes at home can help teachers anticipate the needs of the students and keep an eye out for any concerns. Providing notice of situations that may affect the school day is very helpful.

Speak for Yourself, Not on Behalf of a Group

Clear, direct communication helps prevent misunderstandings and fosters more effective dialogue. It is important that parents express personal opinions and concerns directly rather than speaking as a spokesperson.

Inform Teachers About Homework Assistance

Homework serves an important role in allowing students to practice new skills. If the level of adult assistance your student received during an assignment seems excessive, let the teacher know. This helps teachers better assess the student’s progress and understanding of the material.

The home-school partnership is an essential part of fostering student success and part of why we selected The Independence School years ago. The dialogue between my family and my childrens’ teachers is pivotal in supporting their well-being. These strategies ensure that communication remains clear, respectful, and productive. 

By working together, we can create a supportive and responsive educational environment, enhancing our children’s learning experience.
 

Parker Slaton is the Dean of Student Life and team member of the Center for Wellness, Innovation and  Learning (CWIL).