DFWChild Guide to Education 2021

PA R E N T-T E A C H E R R E L AT I O N S H I P S

rapport with families from afar, but teachers are doing what they can. However a teacher communicates, don’t let it be one-sided, advises Ellen Gintautas, a special education teacher in Lovejoy ISD. “Do not hesitate to reach out and get to know your child’s teacher. We want to get to know you and build that relationship,” she emphasizes.

“On the flip side, please provide us with grace.

We are teaching during unprecedented times.”

This year, some schools are offering an extension of virtual learning—a method that can pose challenges, particularly with littles. And it’s not easy for parents (whether they’re working from home or watching other kids) to sit at the computer and oversee lessons.

If your child is struggling with a virtual platform, consult the teacher on how you can support WORDS ELISE MCVEIGH + ALEXIS PATTERSON your child being able to do the work on their own.

“Parents need to advocate for ARCH 2020. SEEMS LIKE something where what’s expected from the child is very clear,” says Priscila Dilley, senior officer AGES AGO, RIGHT? The of the Leadership Academy Network, a partnerpandemic was just getting ship between Fort Worth ISD and Texas Wesleyan underway, and we were University. “Make sure you have a good understandgetting our first taste of crisis homeing of what the teacher wants and how the teacher is wanting it. Develop a relationship where you can schooling. There was so much uncertainsay, ‘Hey, this is not working for me. Help me.’ ty about when or if school would return Keep asking for help; this is new for everybody.”

Better Together Building the parent-teacher bond in unusual times

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At the current stage, the “crisis” aspect of our kids’ schooling has passed—but as COVID-19 goes on, things still aren’t normal. Is your child’s school offering virtual learning? If your student is on campus, will you send them to class in a mask? Will visitors be allowed? No matter what this year looks like, it’s imperative that we continue to support our children’s education as best we can, and that includes cultivating the parent-teacher relationship.

TWO-WAY COMMUNICATION You no doubt had less face time (and maybe more FaceTime) with your child’s teacher in the last school year than before. That will likely be true, at least to some extent, in the year ahead. If you’re struggling with a lack of in-person interaction, rest assured that it’s not easy for teachers either. Every educator we chatted with confirmed that it’s harder to build 10

2021 / guide to education

SHOW OF SUPPORT For many moms and dads, volunteering provides an avenue to get to know a teacher and convey support.

If your child’s school isn’t offering on-campus opportunities or you don’t feel comfortable volunteering in the building, ask about virtual or socially distanced volunteering. You might read to a class or tutor a student over Zoom, or cut out flash cards at home.

“Think outside the box for ways to be involved,” suggests Lana Raley, a counselor in Highland Park ISD. Expressing appreciation could also be as simple as sending a handwritten note to school in your child’s folder. “Small things have ensured a better relationship and established a friendship and trust between our teachers and our family,” explains Vanessa Ayoub, a parent in Highland Park ISD. “I subscribe to the model of kindness and genuine interest. Teachers are always responsive when you care about them and show respect.”

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to normal.