A Prelude to Preparing for School

As summer camp starts winding down I've had more time to let my mind drift towards the upcoming school year. Usually this entails to-do lists, updates, and Pinterest. Let's be honest, how many of us don't have a Pinterest board dedicated to at least one aspect of school? For me, I have multiple. There's the one for reading resources, reading centers, math resources, math centers, general resources, fun videos, and more! Feel free to stop on by and check them out. I'm always finding more great projects to pin!

Pin, Pin, and Pin some more!

I always start by making a list of what needs to be done in my classroom. An organized room that looks put together helps me function better. Happy rooms = happy teachers! This time, however, I started by planning my parent events for the year. I am making parent involvement a huge priority. I am going to have a parent night each grading term, as well two parent-volunteer months. I'll be sure to post more information as the school year gets underway! A little preview to look forward to: Poetry Party, Art Auction, and a Science Showcase!

Another new addition to my classroom will be the use of Remind101 or Remind.com. This service lets you text/email parents without using your own personal number. I recently found out about this fabulous tool during a Wednesday #TeachChat session. These are hosted by Really Good Stuff and happen every other Wednesday on Twitter. Simply follow the hashtag to join.

I finished today by working on my family packet that is handed out at the beginning of school. Here I list all of the important classroom details parents will need. I detail topics such as morning procedures, curriculum, behavior expectations, birthdays, and more. It seems done now......I'm sure I'll find more to add.  :)

Here's to cool days, note pads full of ideas, and dreams!

P.S

Teachers: What kind of information do you make sure to send home at the beginning of school?

Parents: What information would be helpful to receive at the start of school?