4. Communicate With Families

Utilize all possible communication systems

Include regular school and class newsletters, back-to-school information, teacher-parent conference information, emails, phone calls, and face-to-face conversation to keep parents informed and engaged. Communicate positive information about students' successes (Breiseth, Laford, Robertson, 2011).

Provide clear information regarding school expectations, events, and services

Share information regarding content expectations and offerings, Common Core standards, school activities, student services, attendance expectations, scheduled school events, classroom and school volunteer opportunities, and other programs. Include photos or graphics and translate when possible (Alaska State Board of Education and Early Development, 2010).

Provide clear information or training on how to assist students academically

Assist families in understanding how students can improve skills, get help when needed, meet class expectations, and perform well on assessments. Utilize translators when possible (Alaska State Board of Education and Early Development, 2010).

Provide clear information regarding school behavior expectations

Let parents know about and help them understand the class, school, and district discipline process (Alaska State Board of Education and Early Development, 2010).