Open House: Building a Foundation for the School Year

It is open house season!

Open house gives families an opportunity to walk into their children’s classrooms, sit in the desks they use each day, meet their teachers, and learn more about the curriculum and experiences planned for the year.

Most importantly, open house provides a valuable opportunity to begin building a relationship with your child’s teacher. That relationship can become increasingly important as the school year progresses. Parents may need to ask questions or discuss assignments, and teachers may need to share updates or concerns. Occasionally, more challenging conversations may also be necessary. These conversations are often more effective and productive when parents and teachers have already connected and established a framework for communication.

If you are/were unable to attend open house, consider reaching out to your child’s teacher by email or sending a brief handwritten note. Introduce yourself, share what you hope your child will gain from the class, and provide any important information you would like the teacher to know. Most importantly, let the teacher know that you are available and look forward to working together.

Even if you attended open house, a quick follow-up can help strengthen that connection: “I enjoyed your presentation and am looking forward to my child having a great year in Science.”

Open house season continues this week. I encourage families to take advantage of these opportunities to connect, communicate, and begin building strong partnerships with their children’s teachers.

Wishing every student, family, teacher, and staff member a wonderful start to the school year!