The Power of Communication

A new school year often brings anticipation and perhaps uneasiness because of all the unknowns.  For students, questions such as who will be my friends, what will my teachers be like, or will math class be hard this year, may cause them to wonder (and sometimes worry) about the new school year. For teachers, questions such as will my students be willing to learn in class, will I be able to work with parents, or will I have support to help me with all the different student needs in my class, cause them to wonder (and sometimes worry) about the new school year. For parents, questions such as will my child be safe at school, will my child’s needs be met this year, or will teachers work with me so my child will learn, cause them to wonder (and sometimes worry) about the new school year.

Regardless of which questions we consider, they are all things students and adults wonder (and sometimes worry) about at this time of year. One way to reduce the wondering (and worrying) is to open the lines of communication with each other. Teachers who reach out to parents can make a big difference in supporting parents and students. Parents who reach out to teachers can help them get to know their child. Students who talk with teachers can share their interests and other information about themselves; this helps their teachers understand the student both in and out of school.

When individuals talk, share, and support each other, relationships form and we get to know each other as people.  These positive relationships are helpful when celebrating successes and when problems arise. Keeping the lines of communication open to listen and collaborate with each other can help the school year get off to a good start.

Here are a few articles about communicating for teachers, parents, and students:.

Teacher-Parent Communication Strategies to Start the Year Off Right
https://www.edutopia.org/article/teacher-parent-communication-strategies-start-year-right

The Power of Positive Communication in a School Setting
https://www.modelteaching.com/education-articles/parent-involvement/the-power-of-positive-communication-in-a-school-setting

Parents’ Top Tips for Partnering with Your Child’s Teacher
https://www.greatschools.org/gk/articles/partnering-with-your-childs-teacher/

How to Talk to Teachers:  10 Tips for Student Success
https://studentfutures.org/misc/how-to-talk-to-teachers-tips-for-student-success/

I wish all of you a wonderful start to this school year. Keep the lines of communication open!

Dr. Wanda Routier
Former WATG Board Member