#whatisschool Archive
#whatisschool is an award winning edchat space where people can express an unbiased response to questions about schooling, where educators have a voice in shaping the future through their experience, recommendations and interests. Join us Thursdays 7pm ET / 11pm GMT / Friday 7am SGT/WA (Perth) / Friday 9am AEDT / Friday 11am NZT.
Thursday September 15, 2016
I am Craig Kemp, Head of Educational Technology in Singapore & co-mod of Please introduce yourself, your location & role
Adam, 5/6 social studies, Brooklyn, OH! Beautiful evening! Glad to be here!
I'll be checking out the archive later have to prepare for our PE'lympics day
fair enough! Enjoy your day
Please help me welcome as co-host of today's chat - please make her feel welcome!
My tweets for the next hour will be dedicated to & w/ Craig!
Jon Bartelt, Supt., Bloomingdale SD 13, Illinois.
Hi and other peeps! Gillian from Vancouver :)
Nathan brother from another mother
Welcome Job - pleasure to see you here
Welcome Jordan. Great to see you here.
Brandan from VA. 6/7 social studies.
Hey Todd!! Always a pleasure
Mike here, excited to take part in another chat, looking forward to it!
Hi
Carl from Avonsleigh Australia
Last day of school before 2 week Spring break
haha Hey Spiri - so excited as well - always love your passion
Welcome Gillian - so good to see you here
Hello hello! Excited to guest-mod tonight! 🍅
Hey all! Sherry, second grade T from SC!
hey there!! What a great day!
Hey Brother - amazing to have you with us as always
FQ1 Have you put in your donation to have visit every school in the world?
A reminder to use the hashtag in all of your tweets & we will be using the Q1, A1 style for this twitter chat
Hello all! I’m Karie, 7th grade ELA from NC and self proclaimed
New to the chat look forward to learning some new stuff,
Good evening Jon! Welcome!
Pleasure to have you here Mike
Robert joining from Los Angeles.
Hey Jess from South Carolina, chatting & grocery shopping :)
I am tweeting during my son's school open house
Q1 coming up in 1 minute ………..
Chris from England teaching &
Welcome Carl Love our Southern Hemisphere tweeters
Thanks! And HELLLLLLOOOOO to everyone here tonight
Hello! Kyle from PA. High School teacher
You'll love it! Will become addicted! global https://t.co/VlhNAfu4Eb
New to the chat look forward to learning some new stuff,
Always here to represent the blue part of the planet
Hey Renee White from NC joining for a bit.
Hello Dennis from a school in Florida ... ... I have made a few memories
A1 Shared vision! School culture shouldn't feel like something that's forced on students, but like something they help build
A1: smiles, laughter, and loving on the students!
A1 - By doing something worth cheering about ... school shouldn't be all about grades and test scores.
A1: support all Ss! Support them in class, on stage, in an art gallery, on the field! Show Ss that you care about them!
Through collaboration and sharing one could build a school community
A1: Show your joy in what you do and it becomes contagious. Stay positive and build relationships with Ss +Parents from day 1
A1 School spirit follows the building of relationships within/across school walls. RESPECT. CARE. https://t.co/hbHqFkqo1q
A1) Set clear goals and mission
BUT... Involve people in teh formation of that mission and those goals
Noah in Denver tweeting on behalf of Stackup. Excited to learn with you all!
YAY Shanez - welcome!!! SO good to see you here before school
What Ed said https://t.co/SR98Rc5da7
A1 Shared vision! School culture shouldn't feel like something that's forced on students, but like something they help build
Oooo terrific. Doing a little happy dance. Thank you :-)
A1 We had our school's 1st Spirit Week and Pep Rally last year ... kids found their spirit!
Couldn't have said it better. Key words - something we build together. And Ss included in building it! https://t.co/W3Le2V3NEI
A1 Shared vision! School culture shouldn't feel like something that's forced on students, but like something they help build
Hello . Elisa, grade 5 Teacher. A little late, but better than never.
What a dedicated STEAM school?
Great point nor forced on A1 https://t.co/KaKDoy4Q0D
A1 Shared vision! School culture shouldn't feel like something that's forced on students, but like something they help build
Personally, I help with different events in school. We hold pep rally for different events.
Dear PLN - please connect,follow & support who is here for the 1st time from my school https://t.co/2GjwOOZ3TR
New to the chat look forward to learning some new stuff,
A1 cont. Investigating ?s of shared interest/concerns. Build commitment 2 school success together. https://t.co/hbHqFkqo1q
A1: By creating a positive school culture that starts from the top and is modelled to all within the organization
I also made a welcome back to school video for the new school year.
A1: to build a school culture & spirit, all members of the community need to be accepted, motivated, and praised
A1: we have frequent spirit weeks where we all have fun theme days and just have FUN! We also do several fund. Involving comm.
A1.2: school spirit must be visible by actions and through signs! It should be clear that Ss are excited to be in school!
Yesss! Fun is a great way to build community + spirit
pleasure to have you here Chris
actually had a kid say today ... this is giving me the feels ... we were talking about Art in History class
a shared vision... so important!!!
Amen. https://t.co/CBrRflLrf4
A1 - By doing something worth cheering about ... school shouldn't be all about grades and test scores.
A1: By striving to build relationships & trust. Ss will support & ❤️ who/what ❤️s & supports them. Also seeking ways to collab
yes! A strong relationship among stakeholders will help strengthen the community
A1 Spirit=heart, body & mind. Starts w/fundamental commitment 2 see & meet each Ts, admin & Ss where they are - ie Empathy
Welcome mate! Always a pleasure
Nice! Love seeing Ts use video creatively
I so love this! If you aren’t having fun... you aren’t doing it right!!
A1) Hui Whānau one Saturday every 2mnths w different themes, locations. Day of sharing & creating
we loved that picture you shared today. Put it up on a whiteboard ourselves:)
A1 one year teachers collaborated idea each grade level was team with theme then when came together for assembly did cheer
A1 Throughout the school, all stakeholders' essential needs must be met &honored equally: social, emotional, soulful, academic
Caring is key. Then Ss feel safe and learning can be joyful. https://t.co/x3VDU1HSk8
Through collaboration and sharing one could build a school community
kids need to cheer for themselves and each other ... as do the teachers and admin ...
A1.1: celebrate, acknowledge, grow, cry, laugh...together
There is power in a smile that cannot be measured ... amazing what a smile can do
So it's working Dennis :)
A1: I also believe you’ve got to celebrate the little things and share the joy!
Lets face it we don't want to work with people who seem to be doing their thing so why should kids
A1: Also think core values need 2B articulated & rewarded. Give Ss & Ts the chance to flex & build emotional intelligence.
A1 I'm a fan of school or district mottos and hashtags so everyone can share their story, and it adds to something big
A1: Giving students a voice and a chance to be proud about who they are and to share what makes their school amazing
Jennifer ELA, NC HS T checking late. I'll find the questions! just finished up childs water cycle
A1 A school of safety & structure, sympathy & support, satisfaction & stimulation, skills & scholarship. The whole child.
We had a breakthrough ... art should give you the feels ... kids gained a new perspective.
YAY, Kia Ora! So good to see you here
Absolutely! https://t.co/mZR56bY2Kj
A1 I'm a fan of school or district mottos and hashtags so everyone can share their story, and it adds to something big
A1) Spirit weeks and be passionate about the school/student
That is great to hear. Haven't heard of a school devoting themselves to STEAM yet. Fantastic
Yes! Authenticity in praise & constructive comments can help foster community & trust. https://t.co/jUx97LZSXL
A1: I also believe you’ve got to celebrate the little things and share the joy!
Q2 coming up in 1 minute ………..
School wide community service projects great for A1 everyone involved
A1 built in my class this year by allowing students to create classroom norms and reactions to failure to comply
A1.3: also, teach traditions and history of your school...Ss need to know the footsteps they follow and how to make their own!
Feel school should extend beyond walls - when those outside (Ps, bizs, orgs) invest in what & how we teach community builds
Yeah! I always say: leadership, love, laughter, & learning. All 4 equal. https://t.co/hNEek51srS
A1: smiles, laughter, and loving on the students!
it derived from our class conversation ... kid actually teared up in class ... it was pretty cool
A1: School and Community spirit is cultivated when all stakeholders have a voice!
Ngā mihi ki a koe Flitting in between & workshop by :)
Stopped by for a sec 2say hello. In Dallas 4granddaughter's Bat Mitzvah. Time w/family the best 👍🏼
Loving all the examples already! Liked the theme of building from ground up and including everyone. https://t.co/WscfDVL43C
Q2 coming up in 1 minute ………..
Parent fresh off 2nd grade Curriculum Night tuning into ...
A1 w/Ts I have started engaging our AM duty with PLC convos-3 diff Ts talking abt best practices
Ah yes another good one!!!
A1: also saying good morning 1 mill times! gets a good vibe going!
my school is ALL in with STEAM! We are also an ABC (Arts Based School). Just goes together :)
Robert's point about structure & support is vital. Without those, values will be just words w/nothing to back up
Yep. But I think Dennis is referring to those students for whom the feels are a foreign concept
A1 sharing with stakeholders what we do
A2. I make parodies to songs and perform them for the school.
Welcome Jeremy - so good to have you here
A2: This is where I use the hashtag. Sharing ideas, thoughts and discoveries w/ my district through or
is now trending in USA, ranking 37
Hello everyone, Marisa here. Student with interest in the seduction world. Pa.
Great to hear.
We are too much like boxes and cubicles but I try and beak out when i can
Big fan of the "GIFtroduction" activity
TY!. Each child=unique opportunity to fuel creative, kind collaborative change in the world. Let's not waste it.
A2: sticky notes with Ss sometimes attached to a piece of candy always gets attention
Hey Jeremy! Nice to connect again!
A2 AdobeConnect and provide creative ways to communicate synchronously and can be recorded
this is one thing I try to do each day, no matter how I'm feeling. It's important to show we care
Yes! Esp if school named after someone special! Great point! A1 https://t.co/Uu3CIbJWpw
A1.3: also, teach traditions and history of your school...Ss need to know the footsteps they follow and how to make their own!
A2: I haven't done this yet but I would love to start a school "news channel" using our green screen tech!
A2 I could be way more creative here - I share out a lot of Ss examples, but I could have a lot more fun with communication
A2: docs & calendars, for schools & even butcher paper on staff restroom wall.
A2. Teachers dancing and singing also gets the kids involved.
I communicate with my kiddos through song...a lot! Share ideas with colleagues, etc
Faige! Thought I saw your name pop up. So glad you did. Hugs.
Welcome Marisa - so good to see you here today
Those all sound amazing. How do you do mystery messages?
A2: And mirror writing in staff restroom. 😊
A1: We use love your people cards. Staff shout out to other staff about why they are appreciated. Then raffle those for prizes
This is great. What's your fav one?
A2.2: With the Admin team, created a Google doc to share and update information they need to know (use Voxer for this too)
A2: I use to share and communicate important information with my volleyball team, teams of teachers and classes
A2) I have little symbolds that mean things. For example a randomly sent email with a moustache means great work
check out his school is a K-12 school
A2: love using Twitter, Google Classroom for SM. Handwritten notes to my Ts from time to time, collaborative communication!
A2: I thought I communicated well and then I read all of these responses!!
A2: use Voxer for a PLN group
A1 Branding builds community. Common project for social justice builds community and spirit
Hi there. Mel from TIS Macao jumping in. A1-We build community thru social activities. When staff bond they work well together
A2 The most profound & impactful communication is non-verbal. A Ts genuine warmth & welcome, empathy &encouragement shine thru
A2 Using Yammer w/team, one drive too, Ps & Ss use trying classing, also have class blog, would like to use seesaw
A1 celebrating diversity having parents/staff f/different countries;etc come present celebrate
A1: also, step up cards for staff to shout out at Ss who are going above and beyond. also raffled off for prizes for Ss
I also send Ss on "odd" missions.
Name the ducks on the oval
Weird but generates discussion
Shows personality
A2: also, is a daily part of communication! School uses it, principal does for staff info & I use it for my clubs!
art in Social Studies ... so in theory the social studies discussion about Art triggered the feels
A2 I tag my principal and my school when on Twitter chats. Like tonight.
A2: I communicate as many ways as possible. Giving high fives, telling them I like their shoes, posting announcements online
A2: My class also has a class # this year & staff & Ss do 😊
Greetings! Amy from MI joining a bit late. I teach middle school band.
I didn't know you coached volleyball?! I was a middle blocker.
For you Big compliment https://t.co/2aZFfbSUVe
A2: I thought I communicated well and then I read all of these responses!!
A2 smoke signals, tin cans and strings, hand gestures, interpretive dance
A2: We are currently trialling as our digital portfolio tool which is an incredible way to share learning instantly
Oh my goodness! You are so amazing! Love this Faige!!!
Now that's...gettin it poppin.
I like this idea so do you type in all parent addys? I have 95 Ss
VITAL!! https://t.co/V2aEz1DD7e
A1: We use love your people cards. Staff shout out to other staff about why they are appreciated. Then raffle those for prizes
Hahaha!! I laughed, loudly!! https://t.co/ycjdXFGRBd
A2 smoke signals, tin cans and strings, hand gestures, interpretive dance
A2: a different handshake for each student. Personalize their presence. Let them know you know each! https://t.co/cgGXUSShIa
A2: I'm not in 1 school, so my goal is 2 keep channels open globally between classes I visit - Twitter, Pinterest, Google+ FB
A2: Twotter of course! Through school # and school handle. I tweet all of the hashtags from school handle.
Sorry, missed the admin part
Q1 cheer-leading, celebrating, being real, consulting, S voice evident aspiration and inspiration, proactive not reactive
A2: has set up a blackboard & chalk in the corridor for Ss to write their gratitude messages for other Ss & Ts
the kids were missing the emotional aspect to art ... trying to connecting the dots
No apologies necessary. Will share picture w/my 3grandkids. Nothing like fond memories
A2: We use Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Google Classroom, class site, Remind, paper and student -> parent info system.
really? Amazing! Yeah played competitive for a Long time and now coach varsity team
A2: I recently started and both Ss and parents are loving it. Makes my day!
Oh yes!!! I'm hearing more about student talk shows and podcasts of late.
I started one last year. Year got away from me, and I couldn't keep it up, but it was So. Much. Fun!
I am on a gif break right now
Yes! We ❤️❤️❤️ for schools! https://t.co/fstGTkFtiz
A2: We are currently trialling as our digital portfolio tool which is an incredible way to share learning instantly
Lovin it. Hear about fun as well cc
Oh no! Sending good vibes and positive thoughts, hope all is alright
Digital portfolios is an excellent tool and if used with an option where parents and community can comment it becomes twoways
it has something to do with the privacy??? I use PowerSchool connect w/parents instead-but should use more
A2: In previous school, each T had post cards to send home for positive messages. Families loved having unique hard copy.
Hopefully just scours from the big rush of green grass in the paddock
A3 since getting hooked chat would've promoted school wide staff twitter accounts and had in house weekly chats/mtgs
Late as usual. Wendy from NZ, teaching prinicpal, re-imagining failing school, loving my job
that's frustrating - it's such a powerful tool
Q3 coming up in 1 minute ………..
unless you start using semaphore I don't want to hear it...
So true! Families, community leaders... school is part of who we are, too. https://t.co/RfTUbwAtGj
A1: School and Community spirit is cultivated when all stakeholders have a voice!
Great ideas! https://t.co/bjKMpWwpTS
A2: I communicate as many ways as possible. Giving high fives, telling them I like their shoes, posting announcements online
I pics of me crying when students don't try
A2: a live twitter feed of the school # on screens around the school with Ts posting good practice & celebrating Ss success
All of your ideas are on fire!!
A2 Looking for ideas, using cards letters, taking sch to them, home reporting for learning conversations meet on their terms
A2) Composing waiata/songs about your school, classroom, workplace which everyone learns & sings together
You'll be prepared for the zombie apocalypse
I had to Google what semaphore means!! That seems complicated!! haha!
A3: Encourage pursuit of passion, inquiry
OMG. I'm so jealous of your Ss! How cool.
Hehehe I know, but we have been sharing for two years now :-) You are a good sport.
have blog for Ss, but I shld blog more myself-this wks topic is refugee crisis-early subs look excellent
Starting blogging last year too.
Alice from MA jumping in late to besides seesaw any suggestions for portfolios?
A2 T's comm with S's via WeChat. T's comm with each other & parents via Twitter. School Twitter feed goes to school website
A3 Television network in house is fantastic for morning announcements student awards presentations loved by all easy to set up
A2: At DVU we just started this thing called inside Delval. It give us updates about everything on campus and more .
A3: Students in D13 (grades 1-8) have Chromebooks that allow 4 digital work 2 extend beyond the classroom (Hangouts 4 example)
Hello Ben from Melbourne checking in!
A3: build suspense and excitement for the next class! Cliff hangers! Then post supplementals to your class! Kids will read!
A3: makes this easy to do - that is how we communicate and push out notifications for
A3: I must honestly admit- I struggle with this! I try to email, but not all my students have internet access.
the Ss do too, something about chalk for getting creative Wld send a pic but no school today for us
We appreciate the nod for an amazing !
강남야구장 예약하기 ~ 선릉풀싸롱 섬릉야구장 ~
A3 Reach out, connect if possible. Ask what's happening. Have collaborating (team) students reach out too.
A3: Google Classroom is a great tool. Even more excited about it now that they have set up for parent updates!
A3: I use Google classroom religiously & explain to my S's when they are not in school to please log on
This exists for real? Because it's AWESOME. I imagine following that feed as a parent, too. https://t.co/JKebOoDvY6
A2: a live twitter feed of the school # on screens around the school with Ts posting good practice & celebrating Ss success
A3: [shameless plug] Stackup is all about recognizing students' online inquiry even when not in school https://t.co/EdzMVwooxt
A3 Read, read, read! Every passion, every potential is found in books. I help kids find the right ones & they love reading!
A3: Flipping some phonics lessons via & including videos used in lessons or related in too.
what is wechat? I haven't hear of it.
A2 On the chat, tweeted that we could ask kids what they're proud of every day. I'm so all over that!
Send flowers for no reason at all, gifts, clebrate special days, find more time for them to be released - all staff
A3) School FB group most effective way of communicating w whānau - most parents active on FB
I have the same issue. I'm not sure how to answer this question.
A3: My school has a high absenteeism/tardy rate. This is a struggle for me.
I'm seeing this more in the community too. AKA "hooks" - kinda like a series lol
has a S story in addition to class and school story. Ss and Ts can upload snapshots of work https://t.co/sopyXecVAB
Alice from MA jumping in late to besides seesaw any suggestions for portfolios?
A3: texting parents, phone calls, ,and notes and newsletters
A3 Make sure Ss know you're available or at the least that your classroom resources are available whenever they're in need
hey mate - good to see you here
A3: We use a flipped classroom model - learning starts at home and then becomes real once they get to school
A3: I am all about emails and google classroom! Plus I have an box
A2 I have a class channel that highlights student work.
A3 We have a whole school blog that is ran by our eSmart leaders. Here we encourage collaborative learning at home from P-6
Yes, Jena! The personal touch, both literal & figurative, is always best. Community & camaraderie! https://t.co/Tmydp7vYjr
how's it going so far? Our girl's elem school started it late last school year but not a word yet this year.
Oh Wendy. I want to work at your school. Unexpected gifts of appreciation are THE best.
yes, over half of my parents said they would go this route! Starting it this weekend!
I have started using Instagram to share pictures of what is happening in class ... also Tweet pics
class should be a mini-series...grab attention...create a desire to learn more about one part! They'll find it!
A3 moved from 64% attendance rate to 92%, still work to do. Devices, STEAM curric, rebranding all part of the mmt upwards
Oh Jena! So now I have to make a 30 minute block of time to blog!!! maybe during the vocab quiz tomorrow! :)
This! The best homework is life skills and ofcourse learning to love reading! https://t.co/HuRjaS1pOT
A3 Read, read, read! Every passion, every potential is found in books. I help kids find the right ones & they love reading!
Text messaging w/ video and photo capability too
it's incredible mate - SO positive
Busy working on schoolwork, homework, and other fun things.
Late to the party! What are we chatting about tonight??
A3 Google classroom, Instagram and Twitter for all my classes, trying to allow Ps to follow along & Ss to show off what we do!
A3: encourage Ss to investigate their natural curiosities via & practice reading & answer Q w
yes totally agree with you there, any absent Ss have easy access to what they missed via Google Classroom
A3 I use for all assignments ... it is a bridge to class for absent students ... have even had kids Facetime in
A3: use for math and for other applications. Onenote only requires Internet to sync, not to do work!
This is why we flip learning - "learning starts at home". Bingo! https://t.co/ly3H2qjrKP
A3: We use a flipped classroom model - learning starts at home and then becomes real once they get to school
slowly starting to flip. Ss need to get adjusted to the "homework" process, but it looks promising!
No, but it has been mentioned a lot tonight. Thank you for the share. I will check it out.
not modelling enuf, no reciprocation LOL. Hard job fixing the broken so my way to try to keep Ts moving forward
Introducing to our World Language dept tomorrow. Love the possibilities in the classroom
i use as well- but getting EVERY parent signed up is a chalI! I fight with some for upd cont info!
School goes beyond walls of bldgs. Important 2 create lessons that allow practice in RW & RW experience 2 come back 2 school
Q4 coming up in 1 minute ………..
Good for when I'm out too! Can post assignments and updates even when I have a guest teacher.
- Come check out at 8pm (30 min from now). A great chat for principals, admin, and lead educators
I have elementary students that do not have phones. Can this be used with this age group?
I need to add that in for Ss and get back into it myself!
A3 whatever tool you use make sure it reaches multiple platforms
Feel strongly if Ps & family know lessons learned in school, they can continue learning outside & apply 2 RW situations
Great use. So many Ts & Admin asking how they can use it to connect w/ Ss better.
Teaching the importance of education and teaching life skills!
A3 I love it when Ts send Ps questions home on for enhancing lessons from the day
A3: (late to party...6th gd T from Nebraska here). I ditto Google classroom! Just wish P emails would include access 2 work
and great for visitors new to school to get a glimpse of the learning culture
Give families resources to support Ss at home = games, challenges, fun, family can all play, facebook share
A4: Keep them up to date on class happenings. Give them more to ask about than "so what did you do in school today?"
Great This covered so much of the packet sent home for signature in Fall and when new student
In the most important ways, parents & teachers are proxies for each other as allies in education. https://t.co/87WXoDfdgV
Waves! I'm good. Haven't seen you in awhile. How is life?
great idea! Need to set up a class account
A4)
If I see a good article I email
If something spacey (eg: ISS sighting) is happening I email them
A4: Do as does, go to Open House and show your child how important what they do in school is to you.
A3 Content, assignments & textbooks are available online via Edmodo, Moodle or Google Apps.
A4 Get Ss to get Ps (and other community members) involved! Use classroom activities as a bridge to Ps involvement
A4: Be available, answer their every question, be compassionate, love their child.
Yes - Remind works over the web and email as well
yes true, and it just keeps getting better with new features
LOL have you thought about vlogging? Just turn on the video & share your thoughts. Very effective.
A4: invited Ps 2 receive Google class updates. I also send messages asking Ps to ask their child (fill in blank)
A4: I send home "survival guides" with certain assignments to help parents be better equipped to help their Ss!
A4 Class Dojo Stories have really helped provied a safe and secure way for Ps to be active members of student learning.
A4 Communication is key. I never let more than a week pass without reaching out to parents (via text, email, video, etc).
A4: Opening up c/room doors, sharing live streams of events, real-time learning journals & by providing an online 24/7 VLE
A4: educate Ps on your method. Mine is different than other Ts & I let them know. Ps will support process if they understand.
A4: Parents will participate if they feel like they are invested. Build rapport and relationships with parents.
Q4: Read &discuss w them, ask to show you what app used to do math at school,encourage wonder,do mini- proj at home
A4 use parents expertise. Builds parent ownership of school
A4 Every 3-4 weeks we have a 'family blogging week'. Where Ss get prizes for the best parent comments on our Learning blog
a4 we like to use and to inform parents
Texting. Constantly. Ask them questions on how they can help you, then they will feel comfortable to come to you for help.
A4: I go to the blog again-I make sure everyP knows their S has a blog and the class blog and then I share the posts
LMAO love the glasses. Thanks for following. Look forward to sharing not perfect hats and stories.
A4 Since social, emotional, soulful, & academic learning all are intertwined, Ps help by raising respectful, responsive kids.
A4 My weakness, hoping to open my doors more often this year. Last year's focus was reaching out digitally need to go f2f now
Oooh I like that! Ideas for games and fun especially
A4.2: Goes back to developing relationships that encourage involvement and participation from the school side to the home.
A4: class website; social media accounts; chew& chats; learning nights; invitations into class
A4. Make sure you're providing not just the content, but the skills/support for P to engage. Esp when tech/AT is involved!
my parents are loving getting an inside look into their child's day with
A4: I got an idea from somewhere may hv been here to hv Ps write letters to Ss
absolutely, my HS daughter has open house tonight, I'm traveling, but my wife is there
A4 We give Ps access to but we need to do a better job engaging them. Trying to create a parent academy.
Be sure to connect and follow all of the amazing educators here today - take 2min to do that now - amazing people here!
A4: make phone calls home when their child has an 'aha' moment or does a good deed; need more positive phone calls home!
A4 so small donor funding projects to get parent's buy in
A4) As a cyber educator, Ps sit in on all lessons, I ask them to participate, or present if knowledgable in area
I love this idea! I've sent "cheat sheets" home for P sometimes too!
A4: might be interesting to create a homeroom family newsletter...a weekly/monthly update of our class excitement!
Yep 100% spot on, we hold Parent forums/workshops when we introduce something new. Its hectic but always pays off
A4: I'm developing a YT channel for Ps.
I'm a huge fan of S blogging. Cool for Ps to see evolution over time and a nice archive
A3 agree absolutely essential
Dog demanding a walk so have to sneak out early. Looking fwd to catching up on the archive
You're just flat out awesome https://t.co/7kI1vADeIf
A4 We give Ps access to but we need to do a better job engaging them. Trying to create a parent academy.
A4: also encourage Ps to get on Gclassroom-I do with my child
But they are welcome even if they are not friends
yes, real world math, what are they reading, community, etc, etc!!
A4 not fan of HW, Ss have a grid that includes thigns like = tidy your rm, cook a meal, go 4 family walk, watch movie tog etc
A4:invite Ps in as resident experts, volunteer opportunities (sorely needs at HS level!), shared decision making, open house 🏡
A4 INVITE THEM TO DO SOMETHING SPECIFIC/their talent/ show class/do w/ class &if can schedule on dayGREAT
A4: Ps need to know research behind our practices. Have them do the math for example!
A4) invite parents to follow you on Twitter, I follow my daughters teachers and schools
that was big selling pt w/admin. I was first in bldg to do it. AP saw the evolution and liked it
A4: communicate with Ps in as many ways as poss, PTC's, coffee mornings, newsletters, mail; inform them about how to support
Ps need 2 feel welcome, have ways 2 see what kids are learning & told how they can continue that learning outside school
I think this is a necessity but too often overlooked, especially with the evolution of technology
A4 communication home about the students success, attend open house
interesting -- what would this parent academy entail? Who's involved in creating it?
I dont know that I look good enough at the end of the day to pull that one off!!!
Nice!! I like the approach of inviting them as experts or guides
Think needs to be more interactive ways for Ps to be involved. Lots of Ps will need help 2 understand why should participate
A4 and don't forget parent digital citizenship workshops to be better models
Yes. Especially after one of those negative calls.
A4: Ps also have skills to offer thru their job or otherwise; invite them in to share their expertise
I was actually quoting my daughter's T on Twitter during back-to-school night.
Awwwww nothing better. They bring so much light & love into the world. Soak it up and share :-)
have parent award day make sure all get one in year A4 have certificates celebration Reinforce their support like students
Q5 coming up in 1 minute ………..
another word for 'lunch & learns' but chew & chats can happen b4 school or after depending on Ps schedule :)
A4: leads our Ps coffee mornings, always a learning theme, Ts or Ps as speakers sharing ideas & strategies
also we set up a class Twitter run by ts where we give ss a voice
Awesome! I am working w/a PTO that is bringing me to a school. The Ps found me - love that proactive approach.
haven't thought a lot about this, but will absolutely do! They'll see WHO I get my wonderful ideas from!
spiral back to last week do session with parents too A4 https://t.co/XqkvErK9R2
A4: Ps need to know research behind our practices. Have them do the math for example!
my daughters "love" it when I interact with their teachers and principals on Twitter...
A4: more information a school has about families the better a school can serve the Ss! Let parents in to help move forward!
A4.3: D13 does have Donuts 4 Dads and Muffins for Moms 2 bring families in the schools during the year outside of conferences
Ps were always surprised when I made a 'good phone call' home! lol :)
A3 Support them with their experiences and interests. Going to sport etc
Yes, parent recognition too
Woulnd't it be great if Ss got 2 show their portfolios of work to Ps & explain what they learned? Proof of learning
a4 we have open nights or days to invite ps in to become involved
A5: Newsletters, phone calls, parent nights, notes from the principal.
Vlogging! That's a scary thought! Then again, in my world we would all communicate entirely in text.
A4 Am I the only who finds it strange that we should have to work for parents to become partners in their kid's learning?
A4 Create social events that get parents in the school. Allows for informal connections that lead to strong relationships
A5: Go old school. A handwritten note home stills carries more impact than the email - it's more personal.
A4 sch has high Maori role so culture, te reo and tikanga are v imp, Family partnerhsip key to engagement with this
I think I take this for granted. I would have loved to see that as a student!
A5: Only have one this year and send notes home in his agenda. We do it privately so he doesn't feel odd
A5: not many like to do this, but my Ps all have access to me via text. Esp because most have cell phones.
A4) All of the above. And don't focus on us volunteering. We have a far more important role than that! https://t.co/9jIvRDsIkA
Well, it's one suggestion :-) Wish your kids could type and then send computer generated voice
I really want Ss to create content as a way of sharing info about SM. Also Ts sharing tech they use in class.
OK
I need to go teach these kids a lesson
Thanks for the chat
A5 Phone calls & as just said the power of a handwritten letter is incredible! Let Ps and Ss know you're invested
A5: I want to start either a class newsletter or homeroom newsletter. All student created. Send it home weekly/monthly!
A5: Ask them into the school. We make coffee and plan to have parents ’testing’ the coffee making abilities of our Ss.
A5 Parents, seniors, professionals have a done that history to share. Example: Survivor stories
I think there's lots of reasons for this, such as Ps not knowing where to start or what to do
A4 During Orientation I gave every parent my cell phone number and Social Media information and encouraged them to connect
A5: good old 🐌snail mail🐌 - I have a few times written a positive note home and mailed it! Ps need that sometimes!
A5 I'm not afraid to kick it old school with a phone call home. Kiddos are always surprised by that, but I love talking to Ps
Ditto to all of these! https://t.co/ffPjPg8Aa8
A5: Newsletters, phone calls, parent nights, notes from the principal.
A4 learning fesitval each term, Ss cook for community & share learning, keep it causal, boys nites and girls nites with adults
Not@at@all Dennis in an ideal world it would be instant....
A5: phone calls!! Hard copies home of newsletters etc..
loved when did Lunch and learn and worked great before achievement testing time Kids loved it!!!
I think the extra links are a great idea. I'll be doing something similar very soon.
this works well using ps see assignments and encourage the chin
A5 Train your Ss to access their Ps. Assign "dinner table discussion" topics: Ss interview Ps on class topics & report back.
A5: invite them in, create a range of timely opps for Ps to come in meet Ts, see Ss at work, connect with other Ps
A5: Luckily we are in an environment where this is not the case. We do our best to push out multiple forms of communications
so you might be communicating a different way every week? I think I like that. ;)
A5: Good old hand written notes,paper copies, & conferences. Our school has 2 conf nights yr at diff location to connect too.
A5: We encourage parents to join our sites
I can't tell you how mine reacted. They haven't come out from under their covers yet.
I don't. 4 too long school = place you send your kid to learn, not something U participate in. Needs 2 change
yes!! We did postcards! A5 https://t.co/uQVb4qtLHO
A5: Go old school. A handwritten note home stills carries more impact than the email - it's more personal.
A5: old school letters home, send notes along with homework ect., it works best, no joke!
my son is physically limited and nonverbal-we are getting the new dynavox eye gaze, would be nice
Another great idea. And again love the student creation aspect!
A5) Attend events that are happening in your community. Interact w whānau in their environment
I'm sorry to cut this short but bath time for my littles. Looking forward to catching up later. Thanks for a great chat.
A5 newsletters, calls, I live on an island so opportunities to see Ps outside of school happens a lot
A5: The app is a great way to stay in touch with all parents with a smartphone
A5 forehead stamp on kid's heads
if he could communicate through a vlog with his teachers-maybe in MS
SO smart Robert. Empower the kids 2B teachers themselves - help your Ps see what you learned. Get them excited!
A5: Snail mail still makes an impact.
even though it's not the case, sometimes parents still want it! They appreciate the effort made to inform them!
I do try to switch it up. Keeps me on my toes (I suppose it keeps them on their toes too!)
our pastoral support worker holds this every Wednesday to encourage visits
and if notebooks, HOLEPUNCH AND HAVE SPECIAL SECTION FOR important notes/some might need signature A5
A5 we are opening up our to Ps and Ss this year- we are hoping Ps will join!
Class discussions can continue at home with families. Send parents a prompt/question via
Oooo keep me posted. Do you know ? She does great stuff w/her kids.
Omg thank you. ;)
Seriously. Check out this idea. I've been waiting for this kind of thing for years.
https://t.co/z0s3Q3ZR0R
sometimes they truly do need them!! I've gotten so many "omg thank you"s from parents!
They can. The mic on my computer just wasn't good enough to pick up their iPad voices so you could hear them.
😂sometimes I feel like I need this. 😉
A5:home visits, letters inviting parents in personally, arranging transportation if needed, hard copies of all important docs
I think some parents feel left out of the process or they themselves had a poor school experience.
Great idea. Give Ps a reason to come in and they will. They most often want to be involved!
well I've followed her now!
Oooooh I want to be there! Eager to share a project i did too. What fun it would be.
A5 Ask them 2 visit us, call, text, or snail mail, Never did home visit, but have been asked to dinner
A5 celebrate Ss success with them, thank for help, push partnership, newsletters, notes ,facebook https://t.co/jIUFEKYiq6
A5 Letters home or phone calls... Very effective
Hahahaha well that's one word for it ;-) Thank you. Have a great time as Ms. Jenaia
A5 Vital ?&issue Whatever we can do access resources for Wifi and/or computers for &hook them into closest library
sometimes we need to become the ps teachers too help them see the advantages of partnering with schools
Yes! ...because the students themselves are the human bridge. https://t.co/jcHtbIfyfO
A4 Get Ss to get Ps (and other community members) involved! Use classroom activities as a bridge to Ps involvement
A5: STAR binders-3 ring binder with planner, one pocket for keep at home, one for return to school
A5: I tch WLit & 1 goal on PDP is comm involvement-need 2 find a P to come in and do something w/us
Excellent. Two of my favorite folks.
I had a birthday lunch brought in for me! It pays to treat Ps nicely!
A5: We plan to hold a ‘have a go’ day for parents. Get them learning from their students or to learn like their students!
Let's do something about that this year.
My mom invited Ts to our home for dinner - was really fun and special!
Q6 coming up in 1 minute ………..
A5: Our PE staff holds an AFL 9s game almost each term. Ps, Ss and Ts playing together. Competitive, but loads of fun.
do you think I can tweet and drive
Preller , Michael Giacchino , , , , I Feel Good , , Matt Wieters , Pomeranz
yes! better chance get support appreciation positives re their child/themWill listen when problems A5 https://t.co/7empx96Ipa
A5 celebrate Ss success with them, thank for help, push partnership, newsletters, notes ,facebook https://t.co/jIUFEKYiq6
thanks for sharing I will have to check it out
A5: Good old fashioned newsletters, phone calls, notes home, and engaging events not just at school, but THEIR community too
A5: can we go back to home visits?? Weekend community activities that bring us all together!
A6: Be real, always be real.
A5 LUV idea of having Ss keep Ps posted. What about asking Ps 2 write 2 Ts & vice versa? I know I know no TIME
A6: We post all SSC, PTA, and PFC meeting minutes on website and email home
Thank you ! Till next time. Catching up w/my son who was on a school trip for a few days.
This is great! Kudos that it comes from the schools. They appear to be invested in family engagement. https://t.co/2Q5R4ML5eA
A6: Make communication open, honest and real. Twitter is great for this. SM for good! Often fear of misinformation overtakes.
A6: a mindset that if it's important to parents it's important to me.
A6: share goals and action steps with stakeholders to ensure both. Communicate in public about what you will do- do it!
For the first time, I gave out my cell number to all the parents at open house. It made an impact. https://t.co/Mm5lhHtDeT
A6: need to be transparent w/ learning happening& how learning goals & success criteria are aligned w/ that learning 1/2
A6: what descriptive feedback sis I give your child based on the LG & SC; what are nxt steps? 2/2
I feel the love too, got fancy bracelet & each child bought a charm, favorite is Yoda puppet https://t.co/IWnfTBh78w
Parents could dictate the letters to teachers & Ss write them using their ELA skills. https://t.co/m47uIxFi9t
A5 LUV idea of having Ss keep Ps posted. What about asking Ps 2 write 2 Ts & vice versa? I know I know no TIME
A6: be consistent. Ps talk. Be direct and formal. Ps want you to be honest. Show your true care for their S's success.
A6: always be straightforward with the purpose of communication, assignments, projects
A6: everyone needs to share and follow the same professional and respectful protocols
a5 also use Facebook in positive digital manner setting up school sites that are models for communications
A6 Establish open communication protocol. Here is what I communicate, and here is what is confidential.
A6 Be open & honest. If there are areas for growth don't be afraid to share that info with the wider community
A6 Surveys to ask for feedback on what info is helpful, how often, format, etc
A6: I go with honestly and openness. And I'm usually available almost all the time.
A6: share learning happening on social media accounts; have a school account & blog as well; have Ss reflect on learning
A6: also be clear when you have concerns, that you are there to help, but accountability will be handled
Thanks for the nod, Mary!
A6 Be honest, respond to concerns quickly, share the good and when needed the bad & the ugly too.
A6 Apologize when necessaryFess up if made mistake Ask parents what can you do better Anonymous survey https://t.co/e0X301L2FV
I like this idea! We can learn so much from parent feedback.
A6:,the transparency can happen via newsletters, phone calls, technology, visits, etc...
agree, not enough being visible you have to "be present in the moment" https://t.co/V1Au91cgWh
A5) Attend events that are happening in your community. Interact w whānau in their environment
Feels like an opportunity to create, follow and maintain good digital citizenship standards.
Great example and framework here.
You nailed it! https://t.co/384D1mY3b4
A6 Be honest, respond to concerns quickly, share the good and when needed the bad & the ugly too.
Please help me thank for leading today's chat with me - Connect & follow her - she is amazing!
A6: I told Ps that I'll respond to emails until 8-9pm. This way they know when I can assist. Be available, but have limits.
mobile number out there, be the change you want to see, ackowledge others all the time, use inclusive pronouns
Thanks for the awesome chat tonight Jordan and Craig and everyone!!!
Had mtg housing authority w/comm police reps Mayor office etc parents students came Had at library Building Bridges project
great chat! Uplifting, inspiring, learning lots from
A6: Give my cell phone to everyone, even Ss. Also admit my faults & apologize when I make mistakes. Remind em I'm human too.
Also important. Just met a T today who shares what time he sends messages so Ps know availability
Thanks for a great chat as always! :)
Thanks to for leading tonight's chat https://t.co/YtyrDfY4W6
Please help me thank for leading today's chat with me - Connect & follow her - she is amazing!
A6: communication also means listening. Listen to their concerns. Don't just preach to parents. https://t.co/fvUkprJ7yl
Time fliews when you're hangin with !
A6: Posting regular activites on to show what students are doing at school
Āe, making deliberate actions to take an interest in what our Ss & families are passionate about
I want 2 say how IMPRESSED I am w/everyone here. As edus you counsel, guide, learn & engage in so many ways. Truly remarkable
Thanks for all the great advice and ideas everyone.
Time flies when you're hangin with !
Great chat thanks family. Have a great weekend!
Yes! Thanks everyone. I will re-read the feed! https://t.co/9H36wuZOYo
Thanks for the awesome chat tonight Jordan and Craig and everyone!!!
Thank You for an inspiring signing up for so I don't miss chats of the future!
Thank You for an inspiring signing up for so I don't miss chats of the future!
And without further ado, here's the lucky winner of our swag raffle..... Congrats, ! 🎊
Thank you - I really needed this tonight!
