Are your kids going back to school this year? After an unforeseen, wild 2020-2021 school year, everyone is excited to get back to “normal”. If your kids are entering back into the classroom, so are their teachers! (Honestly, they probably never left.)
I have taught 3rd grade for 5 years, and I am about to enter my 6th year of teaching! As an educator myself, I am here to share my thoughts on the best way to support your teachers this Back to School season.
One of the best ways to support your teachers this year is to trust them. These teachers are professionals. They have degrees, certifications, and hours and hours of training and professional development that we complete each and every year. Trust that your kids’ teachers are doing what is right for your child. If you have a concern, talk to them about it and trust their opinion.*
The next best way to support your teacher this year is with donations. We are limited on what we can ask for on our school supply lists in regards to extra items. Sometimes we can ask for donations and sometimes we cannot. If you are able to purchase one more box of pencils, markers, crayons, or any other item to give to your teacher that can be so helpful. There will be times when students did not show up with that item or lost that item throughout the year; that is when these donations come in handy! Donations could be specific items, cleaning supplies, or just a dollar amount. Donating money expands the options for the teacher; they can use the money to buy books, flexible seating options, classroom decorations, hands-on activities, etc. The list goes on and on!
One last way to support your teacher is through communication and availability. Every teacher is different, they may prefer classroom volunteers or they may not. If you are available to help, let your teacher know at their Back to School Night! Communication is so important. Teachers want to share things with their students’ grownups. In my classroom, I send home weekly newsletters, and I try to send home positive emails to a handful of students every day. When you are available to read through those newsletters or answer any emails, it lets us know that you are getting the information we are sending. Update your email addresses and other contact information when your students start back this year. If you prefer texting over emails, make sure you let your teacher know!
Education is a beautiful thing. There are countless experiences and topics that will be covered this school year. Be there for your teacher and let them know you are on their side. Our job is to be on your and your student’s team!
