I believe that working with parents is critically important. Therefore, I always begin the year by sending home a letter to parents that both introduces me as a teacher and asks them to tell me about their child. I want to make it clear to parents from that very first day that we are on the same team, and that we need to work together to help their children succeed. Below is an example of a letter I have sent to parents in the past.
Dear 9th Grade Parents,
My name is Mrs. Smith, and I am your child’s 9th grade English teacher. I am excited to be working with you and your child this year! I would like to begin the new school year by telling you a little bit about myself and my expectations, and by learning more about your child from you. I graduated from Wayne State University in May 2010 with my Bachelor’s degree, and I am currently working on a Master’s Degree at Eastern Michigan University. In addition to teaching, I am also a swim coach and a lifeguard.
As a teacher, I run a very productive classroom. I want my students to use what we learn in class to create new knowledge and to develop their critical thinking skills, so you can expect to see many projects and activities coming out of my classroom this year. We will also be using a textbook, lectures, and critical research in my class, and I will be teaching your child to take notes and organize information effectively. I encourage you to ask your child regularly about what we are doing in class, and to email or call me at any time for more information!
In terms of my expectations, I hold all of my students to a high standard for both behavior and academics. I expect your child to treat his or her peers, school materials, and me with respect at all times. I also expect your child to work hard every day to truly reach his or her highest potential, and I will be there to help along the way. You can read more about my expectations for rules and procedures in the attached packet.
Finally, in order to learn more about your child and to help him or her succeed, I would like you to write me a note to tell me about your child. I believe that you and I should work as a team to help your child grow and learn this year, so please tell me, what are his or her strengths and weaknesses? What are you proud of, and what goals do you have for your child this year? What do I need to know to be the best possible teacher for your child? Your writing this note will also be counted as your child’s first homework assignment this year. I look forward to hearing from you and to working with you for the next school year.
Sincerely,
Mrs. Smith
9th Grade English Teacher