Helping Out

Greetings,

In most school districts, school has either just begun or is getting ready to begin.  Our last post discussed ways you could set your child up for success during the school year.  This time let’s talk about building relationships with your child’s teachers and school. 
 
How can you do that in a positive way in the current atmosphere where trust between schools and families has been weakened?
 
One solution is to get involved and to offer help. Ask your teachers what they need for their classrooms.  Most teachers spend their own money to outfit their classrooms, supplementing for resources that are necessary but not covered by a school’s budget. Teachers and schools often need volunteers, support, and assistance managing the ever-increasing number of students. To the extent you can, provide what they need, whether it be supplies and materials or in-person assistance. Maybe you can assist by offering to help with a project or chaperoning a field trip.
 
It’s important to do it with a smile, and no expectation of any direct reward. Help them help your child by sending encouraging notes or dropping off doughnuts for the school office. No gesture is too small. All these things help to put you and your child in the most positive light.  These actions can pay dividends for your child’s education with the bonus of improving education for all.
 
It goes without saying that when the teacher is a good one, doing a good job, your child benefits even more. Conversely, when things are executed poorly, and there are issues with a teacher, it’s likely to directly affect your child. In both cases, you are far more likely to have influence if you have a track record of supporting schools and teachers.
 
We have lots of experience with inadequate teachers and administrators. Our profession exists because we rarely get cases where teachers and administrators have been doing a great job.  However, we still believe there is increased value in building positive relationships wherever possible.
 
We welcome comments and invite you to share this email.  We’d like to be able to help as many students, parents and teachers as possible.
 
All the best,
The BLG Team