Module 15 Discussion: Engaging Families

In order to keep parents, involve our district uses Remind, which is an app that allows us to send multiple or individual texts to parents. We can inform them of assignments, upcoming exams, or school functions. These messages can be sent out in multiple languages.

During meetings with parents, I always thank them for sharing their child with me, as well as point out a positive trait within their child. I want parents to leave the meetings knowing that I see their child as an individual. At times our parents may only be available certain hours due to work schedules, I have been willing to come in early or stay later, so I have an opportunity to establish a positive relationship that I can lean on if needed. 

Several times parents have reached out that they do not know how to look up grades, and or assignments. Since all of my students have school issue iPads, I make video recordings for parents to follow, this enables them to use the iPad to find the information they needed.

Parents as well as the child can find traditional homework overwhelming, homework should not bring stress to the family. Homework should be for practicing not learning new concepts, such as spiral reviews.  In past, I had used ShowMe and Edcreation to create math videos for all my students to use as they work on their homework assignments. Parents were very appreciative of having this resource, some even confided that they too were learning the material. I also share with them additional websites that can allow them to practice the English language.