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Communication Between Home and School

When talking about education and through out our book series,  authors frequently refer to the Four C’s (creativity, collaboration, critical thinking, and communication). As I have attended and presented at several curriculum nights recently, both for my own children and my students, I am reminded of the importance of communication.
 
There are many ways that parents can view what is happening in your classroom through the power of technology. To name a few: Twitter, Instagram, Seesaw, Remind and many others!
 
The power of technology for parents gives them a glimpse into the day of their child. As a teacher, it takes a few seconds in the moment to snap a picture and post it online (always follow the law and district regulations regarding publishing student photos and work). Those few seconds are beyond appreciated to parents at home. 
 
There is no longer the dreaded questions of “How was school?” or “What did you do today?” Parents are able to ask specific questions directly related to the pictures and comments they saw online throughout the day. As a parent, the few seconds the teacher took to share about the day are so very greatly appreciated. Those few seconds can lead to a 20 minute in-depth conversation at the device-free dinner table. I am happy to say, this happens often at our house. Strong conversations are communication at its finest. That is why technology in the classroom is important!
When a teacher can give a family a view of the classroom, the conversation that can happen at home is priceless.
Be brave, try it today!
If you need help contact us here it use the #NOWclassrooms on Twitter.
Beth Hatlen
@MrsHatlen
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Starting the Year with Intent

August 2017

Heading into a new year with intent…

Coming back to school as a veteran administrator has its benefits. You know where everything is, who is doing what, what people expect, and where your focus needs to be.  It also has its drawbacks: you know where everything is, who is doing what, what people expect and where your focus needs to be.  

This year I found myself stuck in a dull lull.  I can help others create a spark, but couldn’t quite find the spark I need to create an engaging opening day for staff.  

That is until today. I met with a colleague to plan a common thread that we are both focused on.  Within 30-mintues we were on a roll and my creative and engaging ideas began to creep back.

I was able to look at my other goals for the year with a new lens.  Working with others is an important part of how schools function.  

So how does this tie into NOW Classrooms?  Collaboration and Communication are the key components of any successful endeavor in school.  This year I will be journaling our adventure through collaboration and communication and how our 1:1 program is a key to our adventure’s success.

This year at Indian Trail we will be focusing on collaboration and communication with a focus on our Learning Resource teacher and Intervention Specialist and well as using SeeSaw to support growth and partnership with our parents.

Thanks for joining the journey!

Robin Brurbach

Principal Indian Trails Elementary School

Downers Grove #58