Module 15 Discussion: Engaging Families

Family involvement is crucial to student success.  It is always so important for students to know that teachers and parents are on the same page.  Communication with parents is key.  In my school, we use an app called "Class Tag".  It is a great way to make announcements to all parents, private messages to specific parents, post pictures of students, etc.  The only negative I find is that not all parents have a way to receive these messages directly on their phone because they do not have a smart phone.  They can access these messages via the direct website or via their email.  Most parents at least have email and some way of checking it.  

An alternative way of engaging families is through physical contact.  We have a "Meet the Teacher" event at the beginning of school and a "Curriculum Night" as well.  This is an opportunity to have all families participate and learn about their child's teacher and school experience.  

In regards to HW, I feel that it needs to be purposeful and not just busy work.  Time is so limited that we need to choose wisely when assigning HW.  I think it is necessary because many times when students have little to no HW, they lose the importance of HW follow up and parental involvement.  On the other side, too much HW can become overbearing and lose its purpose.  We know that kids today have many extra curricular activities, working parents, and other responsibilities.  We don't want to overwhelm.  Balance is key.