Back to School Night really is a great event to get everyone on the same page and help start the school year off right.
The start of the school year is sneaking up on us. Before you know it, Back to School Night will be popping up on our calendars. Here is a checklist to make sure you meet all of your goals for the event while not overstepping.
- Bring your child
Students spend more of their time in school than they do with you. Bringing them to BTS gives them an opportunity to show off their “other world”. Besides, it’s entertaining to watch them act shy in front of you and their friends.
- Collect information about the PTA/PTO and upcoming events
Yes, you’re on the email list and the Facebook group. It doesn’t hurt to take some hard copies of any relevant information, especially about upcoming events. Put them up on the refrigerator.
- Introduce yourself to the principal
You may never see the principal but for Back to School, but it can’t hurt to show you are engaged with the school community. You never know when you’ll need to call him or her for something important.
- Learn about this year’s curriculum
Curricula has changed a lot in the past few years, not to mention since we were in school. Take time to flip through the textbooks (if they’re still being used) and ask the teacher(s) content-based questions.
- Ask about technology
Also ask about any technology needs your child might have for the class. There might be special apps to download or websites they might need to join.
- Do not discuss your child in specifics
Introduce yourself nicely so the teacher(s) can put a face to the name, but don’t take up the time of the other parents by trying to talk about your child in specifics. If you want to talk specifically about your child, send an email or schedule a conference.
- Make sure to ask when conferences will be held (or how to schedule one)
Speaking of which, some schools have designated times of the year for mandatory conferences. Others rely on the parents to make appointments. Make sure you know how to take advantage of your first opportunity to talk “business” with your child’s teacher(s).
Back to School Night really is a great event to get everyone on the same page and help start the school year off right. Afterwards, everyone should be working toward the common goal of student success.