Sep 18, 2010 by Yolanda Fontanez-Coleman | Back To School
I spent many years as a classroom teacher and have hosted many Back-To-School nights. This was one of my favorite events, as it was my first chance to meet and greet my new student’s parents/caregivers. Most parents/caregivers are equally excited, as this event offers a first glance at how their child spends their school days.
Ok, first things first, this evening is for adults. If at all possible, get a sitter for the kids. There is a lot of material to cover and pertinent information to be disseminated throughout the course of the evening, so the fewer distractions the better.
Back-To-School Night, in most cases, involves parents attending mini-sessions of their child’s classes. While most schools will offer parents an opportunity to tour the school, the bulk of the evening is spent in your child’s classroom. Here you will get a glimpse of their surroundings and have a chance to view some of their work. Often time teachers will have parents sit in their child’s seat. I always did. I found it allowed the parent to view the classroom from the child’s perspective. It also enabled me to associate the parent with the child.
The teacher typically begins with a brief introduction and some background information on themselves, such as his or her experience, interests, teaching philosophy, etc. You also may be asked to introduce yourself and identify your child. After the formalities, you can expect the teacher to review the rules of the classroom, the daily schedule, discipline policies and procedures, homework policies, and goals and expectations. The teacher will also review the scope and sequence of the curriculum and familiarize you with the associated textbooks.
Once the teacher has concluded his or her presentation, you will probably have some time for a brief question and answer session. While general questions regarding those items the teacher reviewed (i.e. classroom policies and procedures, curriculum, schedules, etc.), it is not a time to discuss your child’s individual needs. Save that dialogue for your parent-teacher conference, or request an individual meeting/phone conference for another date.
You may also have an opportunity to select times and dates to volunteer in the classroom, as well as schedule your parent-teacher conferences for the upcoming year. You might also be asked to leave a note or write a letter to your child. Take this event for what it is – an introduction to the school, a chance to meet your child’s teacher and your first look at his or her classroom and daily schedule.
I welcome any questions or comments you may have about Back-To-School Night.