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There are so many ways to communicate with parents at the beginning of a school year. I think it is best to have all your expectations for teh classroom stated in your own class handbook (you may need to clear this with your school admin first). Here are some good tips. I'll post mine as soon as I finish it.
Mrs. Burns Classroom Handbook
Virtual Vine Kindergarten Handbook
I would definitely appreciate links to any others that you can find. I would generally include these sections:
- A little about the Teachers and our Philosophy on Kindergarten
- Expectations for the Classroom (Behavior and Academic)
- Communication
- Attendance
- Homework
- Parent Involvement
- (Snacks, Volunteering to read, Fieldwork trips)
- Class Celebrations
You can also set up a "Giving Tree" in our outside your classroom. On each leaf of the Giving Tree you should post supplies that you are looking for that are not included on your regular supply list. For example, parents may be able to contribute:
- aluminum pie pans
- old cookie sheets or baking sheets (no longer needed)
- old clipboards
- bag of beans (lima, kidney, etc)
- q-tips
- stuffed animals (in good shape and no longer needed)
- board games (all pieces included)
Supplies can be seasonal as well, such as a string of lights around Christmastime, or more kleenexes in the winter and spring (allergy alert!). The look of your tree can also change. For any parents who are familiar with the Giving Tree this project will have special significance. Perhaps you can post of a picture of the book cover next to the tree!
Parents are not only to give, but also to receive. We need their support if we're going to be successful in our classrooms, so I always try to appreciate all the parents in my room for their hard work! This can include a baked treat, an apple, or just a phone call!
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