Good morning! As I sit here drinking my morning coffee while watching the remnants of Tropical Storm Bob, I continue to reflect on how I can be a better bridge of communication with my students’ parents this coming new year.  I think the decision to go even more toward the tech side is my best Bright Idea to date!

There is no doubt that we live in a world full of devices…phones, iPads, iPods netbooks, laptops and more.  The class newsletter is still vital for school-home communication.  However, as more and more parents become connected, the way we communicate with them has/can change.Here are some great ways to help keep the lines of communication open:
1.  Use your cell phone.  You can keep students’ parents on speed
dial, something that is so important during the first few weeks
of school.  I have had to make calls on the way to the bus
many times.  What a great tool for departure time!
I have found that parents will reply to text messages better  than
direct phone calls.
2.  Remind HQ–a great phone app that you share with parents.
You can choose to blast a message to all parents, or just one. It’s
safe and effective!

3.  Class Dojo:  This is a program for behavior management

     or class incentives.  It has a great parent communication tool! I
love being able to be anywhere in my room and add points
for great work, helping a friend, etc., just from tapping my
phone!

4.  Seesaw! This amazing tool allows students to take charge of their own learning.  Parents can easily see what is being produced in class as well as keep up with useful homework assignments.  Teachers can embed video to give students clear directions on how to study a lesson at home.  Can’t wait to use this!!!