PARENT
LETTERS Communication between the school and parents begins with the first letter the teacher sends home. Since parents receive an immense amount of forms, newsletters, and other school related information during the first week, the teacher's letter should be short and sweet. If you are sending a letter of introduction prior to the first day of school to your students there is more freedom to expound on your expectations for the new year.
In general, the letter should contain a tone of enthusiasm, highlighted information about the academic year, and important telephone numbers should parents want to contact you. For years I have always included my home telephone number and have never experienced problems.
An example of a letter of introduction is included. If you would like to have the letters or any of the other forms in Spanish, email me. I send information home in both languages.
Letter One:
Dear Parents:
Welcome to our _____ grade family! I am excited about the beginning of the new school year. The education of your child is both a privilege and a great responsibility. Working as a team will provide a foundation for your child's educational and social development. Please feel free to become involved in your child's education. I have an open door policy and encourage you to be an active member in our room ___ home.
School starts __________. Don't forget your uniforms and smiles.
Letter Number Two: (Longer and may be used to mail home before school with a supply list)
Dear parents,
I hope that your summer vacation was safe and you are eager to begin a new school year. This year, second grade will be very interesting and exciting for all of us. We will travel through many diverse themes, learn new skills in academics and develop a strong educational and social foundation.
Please take a some time to share the "Room 35 Parent-Student Handbook" with your child. The school supply list as well as information about our school uniform policy will be found in the handbook. Students must have uniforms on the first day of school. The school and classroom discipline policy in the handbook will help your child understand the behavioral expectations prior to the new school year. During the first week of school you will also receive health forms, district policy information on weapons and safety, and free/reduced lunch policies. The forms must be completed and returned with your child during the first week of school.
Parents may visit our second grade family as classroom assistants or volunteer their time working at the school. If you would enjoy helping, please contact me at ___________(school) or _________ (home). Your support in your child's education is greatly appreciated.
A special friend has been helping to make the room extra special for you. He lives in the Hundred Acre Wood. We will be waiting for you on Monday.
Other Notes:
Daily Notes:
If you have students who seem to require constant notes home regarding behavior, homework that is missing, progress, etc. I make several on labels that relate to specific topics. When the student is missing class work, I do not have to write the note to the parent. I simply put the label on the "parent homework" side of their folder. These can also be used for weekly progress reports for missing assignments or behavior. I have color coded my labels so parents who may not be able to read can tell.. red is a behavior, blue means no homework was turned in that day, or green class work is missing. The labels can also be made with positive comments and clip art.
Click
here for a copy of the welcome letter in the parent handbook - English
version.
REFERENCE BOOKS:
1. Teachers' messages for Report Cards. Published by Fearon Teacher Aids. This if available in English with Spanish translations.
2. School Letters in English and Spanish. Published by Ammie Enterprises, Vista, California. (1995). This is a collection of over 100 translated letters and forms written for schools and school districts covering situations that require communication between home and school. (1-800-633-5544)
More
letters, and notes will be added. Come back and visit again.
Graphics
By:
Return to Classroom Management
