Maintaining a Healthy Perspective (parent freebie)

Report cards might possibly be my least favorite part of my  job.  I don't enjoy trying to represent months of a child's accomplishments and experiences on a single sheet of paper represented by letters, such as an S or N.  It's practically impossible to paint a complete picture for parents under those circumstances.  In order to help parents maintain a healthy perspective, I send home this letter a few days before they see their child's first report card.

I can't take credit for this letter.  I've had it for years and have no idea where it came from.  All I did was make it a little prettier.  You're more than welcome to your own copy.  Just click on the picture.  Maybe it will help the parents of your students maintain a healthy perspective too.

(Is there such a thing as a perfect report card?  I don't believe so.   Here's what I do to help get around that problem.)

In Honor of Conferences and Thanksgiving

I'm happy to say that conferences are checked off my list of things to do.  I'm also happy to say that the reward for my efforts is a whole week off for Thanksgiving.  (insert smile)  

Anyway, while I was in the midst of conferences, I gave any waiting parents something enjoyable to do, which is really important considering how easy it is to get behind schedule.  It's harder for parents to be upset about the wait when they get to spend a few extra minutes reading these little treasures.

You see, I believe in the power of classroom books.  (Look here if you'd like to see some of the ones we make.)  We're just getting started, but by the end of the year, there's enough for everyone to take at least two home as souvenirs.  The parents waiting for conferences love these almost as much as my first graders. 

I also gave the parents something to think about while they were waiting.  

In honor of Thanksgiving and positive conferences, I started each one with something I was thankful for in regards to the little ones.  It was nice to hear what the parents were thankful for as well.

(In my attempt to keep parents informed and fill the gaps that report cards leave wide open, I've got a form that lets them know where the child is at, what I wish for them, and how we're going to get there.  Look here to see a copy of what I mean.)

A Perfect Report Card?

Conferences are this week, so that's about all my brain can think about.  (Well, that and getting myself to bed by 8:00.  I love my sleep.)  Unfortunately, I don't love our report card.  I don't believe it's all that comprehensive.  On the other hand, is there such a thing as a perfect report card?  I've got my doubts.  To help give parents a better view of what their child knows, what I want them to know, and how to get there, which I believe parents really appreciate, I always provide an additional sheet.  Here's a look.  Click on the picture if you'd like to print your own copy.

I understand that using and editing this particular form isn't all that feasible on your computer, but maybe it will inspire the making of your own.