Teachable Moments
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Back to School Night
My youngest daughter is in the eleventh grade. I attended Back to School night with her recently. There was a general session, then the parents were asked to rotate to each class in ten-minute intervals.
There are some things that I loved about visiting the classes along with some teachable moments for all classroom teachers:
1) Create more than one sign in sheet for each class period so parents don't have to stand in a long line to make sure their children get "credit" for their attendance.
2) Make sure you have a syllabus for each course that you teach and you have enough copies for every parent.
3) Decorate your room environment with colorful posters, signs, decorations...but more importantly, display authentic student work samples.
4) Display a bright smile and warm personality.
5) Provide a separate sign-in sheet for parents to request a conference.
6) Dress professionally.
7) Turn off your cell phone.
Remember teachers, Back to School night is generally your chance to make a good first impression!
There are some things that I loved about visiting the classes along with some teachable moments for all classroom teachers:
1) Create more than one sign in sheet for each class period so parents don't have to stand in a long line to make sure their children get "credit" for their attendance.
2) Make sure you have a syllabus for each course that you teach and you have enough copies for every parent.
3) Decorate your room environment with colorful posters, signs, decorations...but more importantly, display authentic student work samples.
4) Display a bright smile and warm personality.
5) Provide a separate sign-in sheet for parents to request a conference.
6) Dress professionally.
7) Turn off your cell phone.
Remember teachers, Back to School night is generally your chance to make a good first impression!