It's important to build positive connections between school and home. One way to help create this connection is through sharing positive news with parents on a regular basis. Also, creating a regular flow of positive communication makes it easier when a phone call home for misbehavior is needed. Here are some ideas for how to get that good news into the hands and ears of parents:
1. Phone Calls - While this can be time consuming, especially for middle school or secondary teachers who can easily see 150+ students a day, it is one of the most effective strategies I've used. You might want to add the words "good news" or "great news" in your opening statement like, "Hi this is _____ calling from ____ with some great news about _____." More than one parents I have spoken with was quite confused at first. They assumed my call was just another in a line of "What Johnny did wrong today" calls. The positivity caught them off-guard, but after that phone call they were much more willing to work with me when Johnny did have a rough day.
