SCHOOL & COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
Due to state & district restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic, family and community involvement had to be reimagined. I have had the opportunity to participate in some school and community events, but as the restrictions are less rigid, I am excited to advocate for an increase in engagement with parents/caregivers and in community activities.
FAMILY VOLUNTEERS
I believe there is great power in welcoming families into the classroom. Many times over the past year, I have heard parents ask what their child's classroom looks like. Most parents have not been able to step into the school since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic and they are craving to be engaged in their child's education. My goal is to establish the mindset that it is not my classroom, but OUR classroom!
COMMUNICATION
Throughout the challenges of teaching remotely during the pandemic, I have learned how vital it is to communicate with parents. Whether through ClassDojo, email, texting, or phone calls, establishing open two-way communication with families will allow me to better meet the needs of my students. By intentionally investing in effective communication strategies, I will be able to connect as a team with my parents/caregivers and students.
CELEBRATING DIVERSITY
Most families within a classroom come from unique backgrounds and cultures that deserve to be celebrated. I want to invite families to share about their experiences to enrich learning for my students and help them to gain a greater sense of the community around them.
CLASSROOM SERVICE PROJECTS
I believe it is important to teach students life skills that will help them develop as productive citizens. One principle that I value and want to cultivate in my classroom is service. Through service to others, we can teach students empathy, self-awareness, and gratitude.
Within the sixth-grade unit of Human Impact, I was able to observe them make real-world connections and learn valuable lessons through a service project with our local animal shelter.