I’m a teacher in an elementary school and I’m supported by the most generous, truly dedicated, positive, forward thinking, and organized parent group around. They provide field trips, assemblies, book fairs, incentives for good attendance and outstanding student achievements. They are willing to sit in the hall and help third grade kids practice multiplication flash cards as well as roll up their sleeves and help serve in the lunch line.

What Teachers Like To Hear

This time of year comes the most appreciated question from the parents, “How can we help you help our kids?” My answer might be, “You know, I’d really like a schedule listed on a magnet that would inform parents when and where special activities are scheduled for the coming school year.

For third grade I’d like the parents to know information about our field trips this year. Schedules for music programs and school carnivals listed in a simple, accessible manner would be high on my wish list. I think that kind of information would help those parents who would like to accompany us on field trips but need to make arrangements with their own jobs.

More Than Just Activities

Even more important would be date set for reading inventory tests, basic skills, and criterion reference tests. If families knew the testing schedules in advance they could avoid scheduling dentist or doctor’s appointments, or plans for a vacation that would pull your children out of school during those important testing times. Also, parents may help their children during testing by making them go to bed on time the evening before and certainly provide a good breakfast those days.

Neat And Convenient

Schedules posted on a Save the Date type magnet in an open place in your home are such a simple way to support your child and provide help for their schools. School schedules are certainly shared with all families in a number of ways, and those need to be continued. But a few key dates posted on your refrigerator for all to see is just one more strategy to keep parents informed.