20 Things That Happen In A School That Values Communication

No news is never good news, in our experience.  As educators, school administrators, program directors - whatever it may be - if we are working with your child, we don't want you to have to worry or wonder.  We want you to feel calm, in the know, and supported.  This means consistent communication - with you, with your child, with our teachers, and with each other.  The more you know means the more you understand and the more you feel connected to your child's education and care.  And really, isn't that what we're all striving for?  To know what your child is doing in math class and how you can help them along?  To know why your child sat next to the teacher today?  To know why your child is all a sudden referencing random ancient egyptian facts?  Or, perhaps, to know what the bake sale money is going to fund or why you need to send in a cheque for programs or fees?  

Unfortunately, the larger the school, the more work it takes to ensure communication such as this remains consistent.  In a small school, communication truly just feels natural.  It just happens, without a second thought, because it feels right and because it's essential to the daily function of the school.  Parents and teachers working closely together get to know each other well, and realize that a certain level of clear, consistent communication is needed to keep things running smoothly.  When a school values communication, everyone gets involved; everyone is recognized, valued, and supported.  It's just another reason why small schools make a big difference.  

20 Things That Happen in a School That Values Communication 

1. Time is spent to say hello each day.  You get to know each other as real, living human beings and not just for the roles you have within the school.  
2. Your child receives more attention.  When there is more time to communicate, teachers get a better sense of who you are, who your child is, and can better engage your child in learning.   
3. You know why, what, and how to help your child with the new math curriculum.  You know because the school communicated it with you and encourages you to ask questions. 
4. It's a happy place.  Everyone is working towards the same goal, supporting each other along the way. 
5. Community involvement and support increases.  The more the community knows about what we're doing, the more they understand and feel connected, and the more they offer to help.  
6. You and your child receive consistant feedback on assignments, tests, homework, etc.  There's time to discuss and debrief.  The more we communicate, the better your child is prepared.  
7. Your child receives reasonable homework amounts and engaging activities.   The more your teacher knows your lifestyle, expectations, and child's abilities, the easier homework time becomes. 
8. You never miss a pj day or bake sale because you're told face-to-face, as well as through emails, agendas, posters, etc.  
9. Time spent to say good bye at the end of the day.  You get a full report on the day, every day.  You enjoy a laugh, hear a story, see some work.  We really get to learn about each other and build a mutual respect.  
10. You get personalized, casual notes from the teachers about a funny thing your child said that day because it was worth noting, is important for you to hear, and there's time in the day to tell you about it.  
11. Your child's lunch is eaten because we know that eating a nutritious meal is essential in keeping their body and mind healthy and productive throughout the day. If their lunch not eaten, it will be communicated as there are many reasons your child might not be eating.  Bonus - Lunch bags are monitored for food allergens to help keep eating time safe for all!
12. Bullying is reduced.  When teachers are more engaged with each child, more in tune with their daily moods, life experiences, and each child's highs and lows, they can guide each child to shine  - bringing out their strengths and helping them work through challenges.  With more connection, there's more accountability to report directly to the parent on how the day has gone. 
13. Discipline and behaviour problems reduce.  Proactive communication instills school values and family expectations, reducing the need for reactive solutions.  Less behaviour issues arise because families, and students, are well informed and valued.  Each child knows everyone is on the same page and there is no confusion or misunderstanding as to what the rules are and who to talk to if they need some space.  
14. You'll be told the good, the bad and the ugly.  Everyday communication on how your child is doing.  You'll really get to know who your child is when they're not with you and who they are becoming as an individual.  
15. ​Direct, immediate contact - know when, know where, know why, know how - be in the know of what you're child is up to every day and trust they are in good care.
16. Expect to have your concerns heard and valued, responded to promptly and dealt with appropriately.  Communication is a 2-way street, your input is greatly valuable to the overall experience of every student in the school.  
17. Your child is recognized for their achievements, both in and out of the school.  Their friends, neighbours, and school members become a support system, filled with positivity for each success no matter how big or small.  
18. You learn where you're sending your money, who's benefiting from the bake sale funds, and why there's a fee mid-year for a new program.  Most importantly, you'll be in support of these events, if and when they happen, because you were apart of them from the beginning, as a well-informed family member to the school.  
19. Expect that when you offer your help, it's taken.  Your support, experience, questions, and input are valued and appreciated.  Schools thrive on mutual respect between parents, teachers, and administrators.  Also know that we'll be reaching out and asking for help too! Be it helping out by reading to the class for family literacy day, baking a treat for the bake sale, or just liking and sharing an event on Facebook. We appreciate and value your support.
20. Enjoy having teachers that are in the know, dedicated to your child's education, and working together with you. Teachers that work together as a team are supported in building an engaging learning experience for your child, have a stress-free work/life balance, and they want to maintain consistent communication with you.