InClass

Arizona teachers share their best strategies for getting more parents in the classroom.

Beth Maloney, NBCT
Fifth Grade English/Language Arts and Social Studies, Dysart Unified School District

Communicate regularly. Give helpful tips on how to get more involved with the classroom community. I like to say, "Be sure to ask your child about ..." (fill in the blank with classroom activity or lesson). Invite parents in to showcase student work and provide food if possible. Ice cream works every time!

Molly Reed, NBCT
Outdoor Learning Teacher K-5, Tucson Unified School District

Find out how your parents are experts. I always do a family survey at the beginning of the year and ask about their professions and interests. I make a list and have it handy to make connections to when I am planning. Then it is just a matter of asking and referencing how their expertise can specifically impact students' learning.

Hannah Jones, NBCT
Assistive Technology Specialist, Kyrene School District

Get to know them! Find out what they are passionate about and find a way to incorporate this in their child’s learning experience.

Ashley Curtis, NBCT
Fifth Grade, Vail School District

Invite parents in as guest speakers, editors of student writing, as guest learners for students to teach new concepts to. I think parents are more comfortable and willing to be involved if there a specific purpose and once they are welcomed into the classroom and see the dynamics of the classroom, they will almost always want to return!

Greg Broberg
Sixth Grade Humanities, Kyrene School District

I find that parents need to be given a “list” of things that support the classroom.  Sometimes parents are busy and all they can do is cut out things at home. Others can be more involved on field trips, etc. I typically review a list of things at the beginning of the school year. I also find that tools like Remind are helpful for sending nvarchar(max) messages to parents about upcoming events and opportunities.

Marcy North
Reading Lab, Flowing Wells School District

Give parents a specific date/time and task. Set up sign-up at the beginning of the year, and make it a point to have contact with each parent at least once during the year.

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