PLF Reflections

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Three Tips: Building Positive Guardian - Teacher Communication

Tip One: Set Consistent, Efficient Communication Routines That Work For You
Even when we know the importance of setting a communication routine, it can still feel impossible to accomplish when anything can go awry at any point of the day. So, not only build consistent communication routines, but build them in a way that you know works for you and is efficient. For example, if you use an Adobe Express newsletter template, you can continue to make duplicate pages and reuse the template within the same project. That way you are always sharing out the same link (no time spent searching), you can have a template email that is sent (you can even schedule it!), and it reduces the times you need to resend a newsletter because a parent is looking for it. Sound interesting but can’t picture what I mean? Try watching the gif below.

Tip Two: Set Clear Communication Boundaries Early
From the start of the school year, communicate your preferred methods and times for parent contact. This may include office hours or specific windows for email responses. By managing expectations, you’ll streamline communication and reduce the pressure of constant availability. Here is an example email of what that might sound like:

Dear Parents,

Welcome to the new school year! I am looking forward to working with your child and partnering with you for their success. To ensure smooth communication throughout the year, I’d like to share some guidelines for contacting me.

• Office Hours: I am available for phone calls or virtual meetings from 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Thursday. If you’d like to schedule a time to meet, please email me to arrange it.

• Email Communication: I check and respond to emails between 7:30 AM and 8:00 AM and between 3:30 PM and 4:30 PM on weekdays. I will respond to messages received outside of these times on the next school day.

• Urgent Matters: If there is an urgent concern related to your child’s safety or well-being during school hours, please contact the front office directly at (school phone number), and they will relay the message to me.

By setting these communication routines, I can ensure that your concerns are addressed in a timely and thoughtful manner while balancing my focus on teaching. I appreciate your understanding and look forward to collaborating with you this year! Sincerely, Your Child’s Teacher

You also might want to consider keeping a shorter version of this in your email signature as a helpful reminder.

Tip Three: Incorporate Quick Voice or Video Messages
Instead of lengthy emails, use short audio or video clips to communicate with parents. These can be created quickly using tools like Google Keep or Reverb (free up to 9 messages per month and up to two minutes in length), and are often more engaging for parents who prefer brief, personal updates. This is also great for families that may struggle with reading, or for a message where voice inflection and body language can make the intention more clear.

Two Resources to Support You!

One Celebration

Did you know that this month, EduMatch celebrates 10 years of learning? Over the past decade, we have grown from a small community of passionate educators to a global network of lifelong learners, united by our commitment to innovation and excellence in education. To mark this milestone, we have curated a series of exclusive events, resources, and surprises just for you. From webinars featuring renowned thought leaders to interactive workshops and special giveaways, there’s something for everyone. Let’s explore together and see what's new! Join us in commemorating this incredible journey and be a part of our exciting future.

Extra Credit Tip

We know that any discount can help when buying as an educator! When possible, we will put extra credit tips/discounts right here in the newsletter. Now, we are just the messenger, so if a discount dissolves without our knowledge we bare no responsibility nor do we receive anything for sharing these discounts. This newsletter’s feature:

Stanley Cups: Need a new insulated tumbler because you set yours down in the copy room and now you can’t find it? Educators receive 20% off most products with Stanley online. Here is the link to the verification to get your 20% off. Happy shopping!