For most of us, the new school year has started and classes are underway. You may have attended an open-house to meet the teachers already. Regardless, it is never too late to communicate information about your student to the teacher.
You have several options. You can call for an appointment for a face-to-face meeting or chat over the phone. You can send an email or a handwritten letter.
As a teacher, I will accommodate my parents and my preference is whatever the parent prefers.
The fact is, though, scheduling an appointment at a time that is convenient for all involved can be difficult for both parent and teacher. So, usually, an email or a letter will get the job done.
What should your letter say?
Regardless of the purpose of the letter, the overall tone should be as positive as possible. A positive letter can make all the difference in the parent/teacher and teacher/student relationship.
No one knows your child better than you do, so the letter can be as detailed as you want regarding learning or health issues. If your child has an IEP or a 504 plan, be sure and include this information in the letter. Include information about the child's hobbies and past successes so the teacher has extra resources for developing positive reinforcement for your child.
Leave the details of difficult family issues for a face-to-face meeting and, then, only if necessary. Simply saying in the letter that the family is dealing with difficult issues should be enough. Teachers are professionals. If a student's classroom progress regresses, you will be contacted. The fact you have sent the letter will open the door of positive communication.
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