Potential Magazine Fall 2015 - Florida Edition | Page 20

wise words

hand-in-hand

TEACHERS & PARENTS
HOW TO WORK TOGETHER By Suzanne Culbreth
For some students, reestablishing school
routines after a long summer break—no
matter how many years of practice they may
have—can be difficult. Unfortunately, the
brunt of this back-to-school stress falls on
parents. They have the challenging task of
ending their child’s summer reign;
pulling the plug on sleeping in, pool parties,
summer camps and other less structured
activities. As a result, in the beginning of a
new school year just getting their child to
school ready to learn takes an abundance of
energy. However, establishing a relationship
with your child’s new teachers should also
be on the top of any back-to-school list of
things to do.
Teachers and parents should be allies in a
student’s education. It is important to build
a good rapport with one another and to

“ I CANNOT HELP MY CHILD
WITH THEIR HOMEWORK.. "

understand our shared expectations for the
year ahead. The earlier that bond is formed,
the easier it will be to discuss challenges
as they arise and jointly find solutions to
ensure that the year is successful. Below are
a handful of questions for parents to help
jump start that conversation.

Suzanne Culbreth was
the 2012-2013 Alabama State Teacher of the
Year. She is the Staff Development Specialist
at Mountain Brook Junior High School

• W
 hat is your preferred way of communicating
with parents? Email, phone calls, written notes or
in-person meetings?

• How can I help my chil ]