- Parent Academy
By Sarah Harkin, Counselor at SCIS Hongqiao ECE
Home and school partnerships play a vital role in helping students thrive emotionally, socially, and academically. Establishing open lines of communication, participating in community engagement events, and volunteering enable families to actively engage in their child(ren)’s education.
Open Lines of Communication
Open lines of communication foster successful partnerships. By working together, we can celebrate and share successes jointly.
Parents can stay informed about special events, units, and learning by utilizing newsletters or learning management systems. Additionally, parents are encouraged to regularly check your emails to remain informed and connected to the school.
Volunteering Opportunities
Our diverse community reflects a rich tapestry of cultures and traditions. Our campuses host various community and classroom events that invite parents to share their heritage. Cooking a cultural dish for community events, or helping plan a booth for the International Food Festival, are delightful ways to help students explore different cultures and share their own.
Volunteering for career events is another wonderful way to support our students. This opportunity is not limited to Upper School families; parents from ECE and Lower School are also encouraged to contact the child’s homeroom teacher to see if a brief talk about their career could align with a unit of study.
Parent volunteers are the glue that keeps our community connected and engaged! Parents can volunteer on field trips or as dance chaperones, cheer on sports teams, or participate in special nights. Consider serving on the Parent and Friends Association (PAFA) to support community engagement and collaborate on the many wonderful events hosted throughout the year.
When Your Child is Struggling
When students encounter difficulties in school related to behavior, friendships, or academics, it is crucial for parents and teachers to collaborate. For younger children who may struggle with writing capital letters or reading words, parents should first reach out to teachers to learn how to mirror the strategies used in the classroom. Much has changed since many parents (including myself) were in school, so maintaining close contact with teachers and adopting their suggested strategies can help children reach their full potential.
If parents are concerned about social interactions or emotions at home, it is important to connect with your child(ren)’s homeroom teacher, advisor, counselor, or learning support specialist. These individuals are part of your child’s team and can provide resources and strategies. Also, we can partner together to develop plans to support your child’s success with connections between school and home.
The home and school partnership, like any partnership, requires engagement and trust. By working together, we create a nurturing and supportive team for your child, promoting success and growth.