Communication is key

As educators, we must be confident in communicating with parents. Call, email, write in agendas, or text the parents to inform them about what is happening in your class. 

These adults are trusting you with their children, so show the parents respect by enlightening them about what is unfolding in your class. 

Here is a letter I am sending home to parents. 

Dear Parents,

I am excited to report that your scholars and I are having an innovative experience in Language Arts and social studies! During the first week of school, the students have started sharpening their critical thinking skills and implementing textual evidence in their paragraphs. Your scholars were also introduced to the Constitution, mainly the Bill of Rights. 

As we read, Cinderella, I was absolutely impressed with the students' ability to recognize that Cinderella's family violated her rights. Therefore, the students took their protests to their “invented” social media sites! Finally, at the end of the first week, they brought in their props in order to perform different scenes from the Cinderella text. Thus, they proved their understanding of literary elements such as characterization, plot, setting, and conflict. 

As they continue their journey this year, I will be using the arts such as music, poetry, acting, and even dancing to integrate Language Arts and social studies. The students will also construct their own books over the months to demonstrate the innovative learning that is manifesting in our class. I know you, the parents, will be impressed with the tremendous academic progress the students will show as well as the beautiful tapestry of learning they will create in 5th grade. 

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