Frequently Asked Questions: This page contains answers to common questions that parents and students may have..

1. What can I do to help my child have a good first day of school?.
2. How do I stay in contact with my child's teacher?
3. How do I volunteer in my child's classroom?

What can I do to help my child have a good first day of school?.

The first day of school can be difficult for both parent and child.  The 
uncertainty of what to expect is often overwhelming.  Rest assured that your 
child's teacher is aware of this common occurrence and is prepared to help 
your child have a great first day of school.  Here are some helpful tips 
that might help make the transition from summer to school a smooth one.

Tip #1-  Attend "Meet the Teacher" with your child.  This will allow you to 
introduce yourself and your child to your new teacher.  If you have 
particular questions or concerns, you will be able to discuss them with the 
teacher during this time.  Getting to know your child's teacher and becoming 
familar with your child's classroom will help both of you feel more relaxed 
on the first day of school.  
Tip #2-  Decide in advance how your child will be getting to and from school 
for the 1st week of school.  If he/she is riding the bus, make sure you have 
the the correct bus information and go over this with your child. (It is a 
good idea to write your child's bus # on a piece of cardstock and tie it to 
your child's backpack.)  Giving your child information in advance allows 
them time to get familar with the idea, thus causing less stress during the 
first week of school.
Tip #3-  Purchase necessary supplies so that your child comes prepared on 
the 1st day of school.  (Click on the "Getting Started" icon located on the 
main menu for more information.)   
Tip #4-  Get your child on a good bedtime routine several weeks prior to the 
first day of school.  The first day of school can be exhausting, especially 
for children who are coming from half day Kindergarten.  Is is imperative 
that your child has a good night's sleep prior to beginning their day.  This 
will lend itself to good choices, better behavior, and a great start to the 
year.    
Tip #5-  Make sure that you are showing excitement for your child's first 
day of school.  Sometimes children worry more about their parents than they 
do themselves.  Your child will pick up on your enthusiasm or hesitation 
towards their first day.  One way to help your child to let him/her know 
that you will both have a great 1st day!

Back to Top

How do I stay in contact with my child's teacher?

Maintaining open dialogue between you and your child's teacher is very 
important.  Whether you ask a question, make a comment, or express a concern 
your child's teacher looks forward to hearing from you.  There are multiple 
forums by which this can take place.  You may contact your child's teacher 
by phone, e-mail, or written note.  You will also be able to provide 
feedback on a weekly basis in your child's "Friday Folder".  And finally, 
you may schedule a meeting with your child's teacher.  Whichever you prefer, 
the key is to STAY CONNECTED!

Back to Top

How do I volunteer in my child's classroom?

Volunteering your time and talents to your child's classroom is one of the 
most important things you can do to help build a strong community.  A 
child�s values, goals, and personality are shaped by the people who come 
into his life, if only for a brief moment. 

Here are a few ways that your child's teacher may utilize your help in the 
classroom.  You may be asked to...
�	read with small groups or individual students; 
�	work with a child on a specific skill; 
�	tutor in math or language arts; 
�	assist children with class work; or 
�	help with special art projects or center activities
If you feel that these are things you would enjoy doing, schedule a meeting 
with your child's teacher to arrange days and times that your are available.

Back to Top