Q&A DEARTEACHERS
BY PEGGY GISLER AND MARGE EBERTS
CHECK UP ON YOUR PARTICIPATION IN YOUR CHILDREN’S EDUCATION
PARENTS: A new year is rapidly approaching, so
8. I attend my children’s school conferences.
many people choose to make resolutions at this time.
9. I am aware of my children’s academic strengths
Unfortunately, not too many follow through on the ways they’ve chosen to improve their lives and their family’s life. Instead of giving you a possible list of resolutions that could help your children be more successful in school, we are giving you a checklist so you can see how well you are doing in being a strong participant in your children’s education. Simply answer “yes” or “no” to each checklist item to evaluate the areas where you are a “star” and those where you might improve. Then, you can decide whether you should make some resolutions that will increase your participation in your children’s education. 1. I provide my children with nutritious breakfasts and other meals on school days. 2. I make sure that they have the appropriate amount of sleep on school days. 3. I supervise the amount of time my children can spend on electronic devices. 4. I ensure that my children have an excellent attendance record at school. 5. I check that my children are doing their homework assignments. 6. I have provided my children with a place to do their homework and the necessary supplies. 7. I talk with my children about the importance of getting a good education.
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and weaknesses. 10. I have an idea of what skills my children should have in major subject areas. 11. I understand the grading scales that are used by my children’s schools. 12. I read to both my younger and older children. 13. I encourage my older children to read and let them see me reading frequently. 14. I have read the school handbook and know what the school’s code of conduct and disciplinary policy are for each child’s school. 15. My children know I support their schools’ disciplinary policies. 16. I read the newsletters that are sent from my children’s schools. 17. I know what extra services are provided by my children’s schools, such as counseling, speech therapy and gifted programs. 18. I have attended PTA/PTO meetings. 19. I have attended the school programs in which my children participate from concerts to science fairs to sports events. 20. I volunteer at the school in some capacity.
