Parent Strategies to Help Improve Communication with Teachers and Schools

PRESENTED BY: DR. LATEASHA WHITEPARENT INVOLVEMENT LIAISONSTOCKBRIDGE MIDDLE SCHOOL

ADAPTED FROM A PRESENTATION GIVEN BY NATHAN SCHULT PARENT ENGAGEMENT SPECIALIST

GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

Objectives

IDENTIFY possible challenges to communication

IDENTIFY types and methods of communication

LEARN how to ask the school for assistance

OBTAIN knowledge to communicate more effectively

UNDERSTAND the benefits of parent-teacher communication

Building an Effective Partnership

Teachers

Students

Parents

Teachers

Students

Parents

?

Possible Challenges

• Perceptions• Need more information• Challenging schedules and

time• Confusing technology• Different language

Possible Challenges – Perceptions

Rather than… Unwelcoming School Unreliable Communication Unresponsive Teachers Unwilling to Help

…what about? Create new impressions Take initiative Visit the school regularly Ask questions

Possible Challenges – Information

What to Know

Basics (contact info, hours of operation)

Events and schedules

Grades, requirements, and tests

“Education-ese”

How to Learn Visit the school website

Read all letters or newsletters

Sign up for email/text alerts & announcements

Join parent groups

Request a meeting

Possible Challenges – Time

Plan ahead to find the best time for everyone

Ask about the teacher’s availability or scheduled times to meet

Use phone or computer if possible

Possible Challenges – Technology

Many schools communicate large amounts of information via their website, email, or master phone calls

Therefore, confirm that the school has your correct phone number and email address to ensure accurate delivery

Let the school know the best way to reach you and how you would like to receive information

Possible Challenges – Languages

• Schools should make every attempt possible to communicate information in a language that is understandable to parents

• Resources are available in the schools to help translate

• Friends, family, or faith based organizations can also help translate

“Voice” Communication

• Communication when both parties can talk and listen:

Phone call

Video conference

Conference call

• Benefits:

Address specific needs

Immediate feedback

• Drawbacks:

Requires schedule agreement

“Phone tag”

“Eyeball” Communication

• Communication when both parties are face-to-face:

Individual meeting

Conference

School parent meeting

• Benefits:

Address individual needs

Direct feedback and input

• Drawbacks:

Schedule requirement

Time commitment

“Fingertip” Communication

• Communication created by using our fingertips: Email Websites Blogs Online grade book

• Benefits: Quick information Large amounts of information Large audience

• Drawbacks: Technology requirements Email misinterpretation Limited discussion

“Handed” Communication

• Communication that is placed in our hands: Letters/Newsletters Report cards Student handbooks Invitations

• Benefits: Inform recipients of general information Reach large audience

• Disadvantages: Delayed or never reaches destination Does not allow for feedback unless requested Not tailored to individual

Best Way to Communicate?

The best method of

communication is often

determined by goals, needs,

and time.

Use different ways to

communicate with teachers based on the situation in

order to establish a

good partnership

and help your child

effectively.

Let the teacher know how you

prefer to receive information

regarding your child.

How to seek assistance

Contact the school

List the concern

Explain what you tried

Ask the school for help

Review and revisit

C.L.E.A.R. Communication is KEY!

Who to Seek for Assistance

Middle School•Teachers•Principal & Assistant Principals•School Counselor•Instructional Lead Teacher/Coach•Graduation coach•Social Worker•Parent Liaison

Tips for Conversations with Teachers

Prepare a list of questions

Provide goal and purpose for conversation

“Is my daughter participating in class?”

Focus on your child

Be an advocate for your child – not the whole class

“My son is having trouble learning fractions”

List concerns

Help the teacher understand your needs

“I am worried that my son is falling behind.”

Tips for Conversations with Teachers

Ask for feedback

Use the teacher as a resource and partner

“What do you recommend to help?”

Offer assistance

Let the teacher know that you want to help

“What can I do to help my child?”

Develop communication skills

Use “I” statements: “I feel…”; “I believe…”

Not always what we say, but how we say it

Benefits of Effective Communication

• Improved parent involvement

Communication provides you with more information to be an involved parent

Involved parents are more likely to monitor and be able to help their child’s progress

• Increased understanding of the school

Know more resources, including people, in order to help your child

• Working partnerships and strong relationships

Common goals and mutual understanding between parents and educators to help students

• Better equipped to help your child

Knowledge to guide and monitor your child

Questions?/Comments

Contact Information

Dr. Lateasha WhiteTitle I Parent Involvement LiaisonLateasha.White@henry.k12.ga.us