Transcript effective parent-teacher communication - Ms. Parrish

EFFECTIVE
PARENT-TEACHER
COMMUNICATION
Preventive Maintenance
Kahina Parrish,
Counselor
Overlapping responsibilities between
home and school
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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)
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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
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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
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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**
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Conferences:
-Brief needs can be addressed in a short phone or email
conversation
-Longer needs require that an appointment be made
Teacher Communication
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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
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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
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Implement suggestions
Contact the teacher with questions
Support the school & teacher
Contact the teacher when another
conference is needed
Closing
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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
Questions
Thank you
for
Supporting your child & May
Elementary