2020 has been an incredibly challenging year for everyone, especially for teachers. Many of us still don’t know if we will be back in our classrooms.
It is difficult to plan for the first few weeks of school. Some districts are planning a hybrid model of learning, where students spend some time in the classroom, while also distance learning from home.
If you find yourself at a loss for how to plan an Open House or Meet the Teacher event, hopefully I can help you with some ideas, and a virtual as well as printable resource for Open House.
I wanted to revisit a few quick tips I have for hosting a successful Open House, Meet the Teacher, or Back to School Night:
1. If you decide to have a presentation (either virtual or in the classroom), design an outline of what you want to cover.
Create a brief outline of the evening’s schedule. Estimate how much time you should be presenting. Try to keep it as short and concise. Anything over thirty minutes may not be remembered. Some topics you’ll want to cover are:
–A Quick Introduction / Meet the Teacher
–Homework / Grading Policies and Expectations
–Behavior Expectations / Classroom Rules
–Curriculum / Daily Schedule / Upcoming Events
–Communication with Parents (parent/teacher conferences, email communication, and phone calls)
-Parent Questions at the very end of the presentation
2. Create a Warm & Welcoming Environment (Either Virtually or in the Classroom!)
Make sure your presentation is organized, neat, and welcoming.
If you are need of some STEM materials for your class or if it’s Back to School time and need new supplies, you can set up a designated donation desk! It may feel odd or uncomfortable asking parents for supplies, but it really shouldn’t! This is a cute way to ask families to help out and for them to feel like a part of the classroom community!
3. Keep in mind what parents REALLY want to hear
Above all, you want THEIR child to be successful throughout the school year. In your presentation, show parents the resources you have available to make the year a great one. After your presentation, try to make personal connections with each and every family.
4. Keep it simple – don’t try to cover the entire year in one night.
Most likely, the parents do not want to hear the entire curriculum for the year. They want to see that the teacher is caring, welcoming, and organized. They also want the feeling of certainty that their child will have a successful school year.
5. Provide a Google Slides Handout or Have a PowerPoint Presentation
PowerPoint presentations are great for Back to School night! It will help you stay on topic and you’ll be less likely to forget something important you want to cover. You can make it creative and interactive, including pictures and examples of student work.
6. Make it memorable.
Try to keep it enthusiastic and positive, especially during this challenging time! This is a great opportunity to get to know your students families and set the tone for a great year to come.
If you need additional resources for Back to School Night, check out the
pack.
you’ll find:
-Welcome Sign in Sheets
-Info Pamphlet for Parents
-Teacher Information Cards
-Reminder Handout for Open House
-Volunteer Sign Up Sheet
-Parent-Teacher Conference Sign Ups
-Reminder Slips for Parent-Teacher Conferences
-How does Your Child Get Home – Transportation Information
-Supplies Wish List
-Signups
-WELCOME FAMILIES Banner
Includes 5 different themes in 1 download
{Both DIGITAL and Print Versions Included}
Find it here!
FREE CLASSROOM RESOURCE
Free Meet the Teacher information cards
Introduce yourself to families with an editable information card.
Get the free cards on TPT
Free download through TPT.
