Honest, collaborative parent-teacher partnerships benefit both educators and students
The goal: to have parents and educators working together for the benefit of the students.
A strong partnership between parents and educators is beneficial for teachers, schools, families and students alike, says the director of Turnbull School.
“We want the lines of communication to be open and strong with the home,” says Gareth Reid. For example, if a child is struggling with homework, faculty members of the Ottawa private school want parents to let the teacher know right away. And if something is going on – the child didn’t sleep well, a parent is away, a grandparent is ill or another family issue – it’s often worth letting the teacher know.
“All the Turnbull teachers have a phone extension,” says Reid, “so a message can easily be left for the teacher.” This can really help bring the stress level down, and it will help both the teacher and the student. Reid says he’s always viewed the support from home as an important part of the “education triangle” – parent (home), teacher (school), child (student). When all three are working in sync, then the structure is most stable and strong. Children arriving at school well rested and fed are much more prepared to have a positive and productive day.
Gareth Reid_Photo Courtesy Gareth Reid
Reid says that when a relationship has formed and trust has been established, managing difficult situations like a poor test result or negative peer social interaction are much easier to navigate.
“We also occasionally ask parents to join a field trip or come in for an event,” says Reid. “For the school, it’s always beneficial for teachers and parents to have these times to see each other.”
Cheryl Ward, director at Heritage Academy, agrees — educators are delighted when parents become involved in school activities. “We really appreciate it when parents contribute to our school activities and events,” says Ward. While “we want to include them as much as possible, it’s not mandatory, as we know parents can be busy.” Ward says that many parents get involved in committees at the school so they can have more of a say in the future of the school.
Cheryl Ward. Photo Courtesy Heritage Academy
“Some of our parents have taken on leadership roles,” says Ward, “where they contribute knowledge from their field of study, or equipment from the company they work for. Other parents are involved in fundraising for the school and reach out to local companies for support.” Ward says that the Heritage Academy building is often used by the community and local businesses have provided support as well.
That support – as well as the support of the parents – is incredibly valuable to Heritage Academy staff, says Ward, adding that both the teachers and administration prioritize effective communication with parents to ensure that the latter stay informed.
And as for helping with homework, Heritage Academy does not “send any new learning home with our students,” Ward says. “We understand that homework can be challenging for parents, especially when concepts were taught differently during their own school years,” she says. “Our students get to work on homework during the day, so they have minimal homework to take home.” Ward says a good way for parents to help is to have supplies and tools readily available, which helps students stay organized and on top of their assignments and ensure tasks are completed, which ultimately makes things easier for teachers too.
“With a minimal amount of homework sent home, it means our students can get out and explore after school,” says Ward. “And that makes for not just a happier student, but some solid family time as well.”
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