Enhancing Learning Through Effective Parent Communication Plan

1. Parent Communication Building a Teacher Communication Plan

2. Parent Communication Why is Parent Communication important? Student achievement increases as parents become more involved in their children’s education. Effective two-way communication between the teacher and parents leads to greater involvement.

3. Parent Communication Research shows that when parents are involved, students have: • Higher grades • Better attendance • Lower rates of suspension • Increased motivation • Higher graduation rates

4. Parent Communication Hierarchy of Effective Communication One-on-one Small group Speaking before a large group Phone call Hand-written personal note Typed personal note (not a form letter) Personal “form letter”

5. Parent Communication Hierarchy of Effective Communication Mass-produced, non-personal letter Brochure or pamphlet Newsletter articles Newspaper articles Advertising Other – billboards, pens, give-aways Summary: People beat paper every time.

6. Parent Communication What is a teacher communication plan? Basic list of communication tactics for the year Includes communication method, frequency, & content Special Events Plan – used to plan communication for major events • Back-to-School, Parent Information Night, P-T Conferences, etc.

7. Parent Communication Why create a teacher communications plan? Effective communication is not something that just happens. Planning helps ensure success.

8. Parent Communication General Communication Tools/Tactics • Classroom newsletter (electronic or print) • E-mails • Teacher Web Page • Phone Calls/Brag Calls/Touching Base Calls • Good News Notes/Post Cards • Surveys • Letters/invitations/thank yous (student-written?) • Friday Folders • Backpack flyers • Voice Mail

9. Parent Communication Other Tools/Tactics • Monthly parent visit days • Additional P-T conferences (Spring) • E-mail Blog • Homework/class assignments requiring parent involvement • Parent speakers – find out parents’ hobbies, interests with survey – use their talents in your classroom • Student-created newsletter • Refrigerator Notes

10. Parent Communication Other Tools/Tactics • Daily “what I learned” review with students • Attend outside activities • Promote a story weekly/monthly to PR • Home visits • Parent recognition • Parent volunteer program • Congratulatory letters mailed to students • End-of-the-Year Class Celebration

11. Parent Communication Special Events Back-to-School/Meet the Teacher Night Parent Information Night Parent-Teacher Conferences Other?

12. Parent Communication Special Event Plans include… • Event Promotion – how will you invite parents? • Event Preparation – what do you need to do? • Event Procedure – what will happen at event? • Handouts • Event follow-up – how will you thank parents?

13. Parent Communication Tips Mix it up – use multiple methods throughout hierarchy Include both regular and one-time tactics Make it “do-able” Communicate goals of project/field trips Provide parents with ways they can be involved (at home and at school) Look for opportunities for 2-way communication

14. Parent Communication I have a plan, now what do I do with it? USE IT – put it in a place where you will see it consistently Share it with parents – Parent Information Night, in newsletters, etc. Adjust/review it throughout the year

15. Parent Communication Things to consider: • It may take 7 times to get a message across. • Communication is more than sending a newsletter. Real communication creates a two-way connection. • Do everything you can to make the first communication with parents a positive one.

16. Parent Communication Additional Tips Schedule your communication in Outlook Ask parents what type of information they want/how they want it Use e-mail for general communication – never for confidential/difficult issues Blank templates located on Teacher Resource page of website – under Teaching & Learning menu

17. Parent Communication Questions? Suggestions Thoughts