One of the loveliest things I heard as we came out of distance learning last year was that a lot of students actually missed school! When I asked why, they shared that they missed their friends, teachers and being able to ask for help when in classrooms.
School can be a tricky place to negotiate with students needing to work out friendships, studies and subjects they are choosing as well as getting to know teachers.
Having positive relationships between students, teachers and parents works in the best interests of children as they are able to benefit from the academic and social rewards. These can include feeling like; being able to approach a teacher for help, improved academic results as well as improved attendance.
When students have positive relationships and are respectful of each other, similar benefits are gained, including a sense of belonging, social skills and a positive attitude towards school.
When we triangulate communication between students, parents and teachers, schools get the best our of students.
“When we triangulate communication between students, parents and teachers, schools get the best our of students. ”
They become aware of not being able to get away with behavior through to knowing that they are supported to become better learners.
It is difficult with time constraints on modern families to build relationships with teachers in high school. The easiest and biggest thing you can do for teachers is call them if you have any concerns regarding your child. This could look like a change in behavior which often signifies possible trauma through to questioning how they are going at school. Other great relationship builders for school communities are coming into school events such as information nights, parent teacher, school welcome barbecues or by offering to help out around the school in a parent help capacity.
I am also encouraging teachers to do the same, calling you if they have a concern about your child, or to celebrate their successes in a day, week or term. I know it’s so good to get a call for something positive as we often expect the worst! Teachers are also always available in parent teacher nights and I encourage you to book in a time, even if it is simply to get to know who your child’s teacher is.
We all live in a busy world which is why I feel it is more important than ever to make sure we connect with each other, so we can support each other as parents, teachers and students to get the best out of your child’s schooling. Please feel free to call your teachers at school if you want to know anything about their education or school life. We appreciate the feedback you give us.
Ed Moroni — Secondary Coordinator