5 Tips for Parent-Teacher Collaboration

Education takes place at school and at home. Being involved in your child’s education helps them make the most of their time in school. One important way to become involved is consistent communication and collaboration with their teacher. This allows you to learn about how your child is doing at school beyond what you see on their report card. Teachers can provide valuable insight, and as a parent, you can give feedback and keep them up to date on your child’s progress at home. Here are some tips for meaningful collaboration with your child’s teacher. 

Start Communicating Early 

Show your child’s teacher that you care by getting involved early in the school year. Some parents even reach out before the school year begins to make sure their child is prepared for the year ahead. Communicating with the teacher at the beginning of the year shows your child and their teacher that you’re engaged from the start. 

Communicate with Teachers Often

Everyone gets busy. Teachers understand that as much as anyone. However, keeping up the communication with your child’s teacher is essential to building a meaningful relationship. Whether you’re worried about your child’s performance or want to give their teacher kudos for a job well done, they want to hear from you. Friendly, consistent communication is key. 

Actively Participate in Parent-Teacher Conferences

Parents and teachers often approach parent-teacher conferences with slightly different goals in mind. These conferences create the perfect opportunity for parent-teacher collaboration. This is your chance to ask questions, bring up concerns, give positive feedback and be truly engaged in your child’s education. Treat these conferences as a chance to connect with your child’s teacher and get on the same page. 

Get on the Same Page

When it comes to your child’s education, there are a few different sets of goals: your goals, your child’s goals and their teacher’s goals. Getting aligned with your child and their teacher can help you set your child up for success and avoid unnecessary conflict with your child and their teacher. Everyone should have a voice in the conversation, and there’s a strong chance that all three parties will need to compromise to some degree. 

Be Consistent with Your Involvement

While you don’t need to talk to your child’s teacher every day, you should be consistent with communication. If they reach out, try to respond in a timely manner. If you haven’t heard from your child’s teacher in a while, take a moment to check in. The more the teacher sees that you’re open and engaged, the better you’ll be able to collaborate and make the most of your child’s education. 

At our Catholic school, we strongly encourage parents’ participation in their child’s education. With over 57 years of academic excellence, St. Teresa Catholic School, a Titusville private school, provides a quality education that challenges and empowers students to develop their full potential. Teachers foster qualities that are essential for lifelong learning and equip students for future success. To learn more about why St. Teresa is the perfect fit for you and your student, contact us today.