Family and Staff Communication

Staff will communicate with parents in a variety of ways. Your child’s teacher will inform you of the manner of communication used in the classroom.

• Blogspot and Shutterfly:  The internet is necessary for these types of communication.
• Email:  Please check your email daily for updates and information in your child’s classroom and for school-wide events.
• Family Folders:  Each child has a folder located in his or her classroom that should be checked daily. School information and daily sheets may be sent home via these folders.
• Portfolios:  Although not a primary means of communication, these portfolios can provide parents with updates on goals, development and progress. These are available for viewing at any time.
• Parent Teacher Conferences:  Conferences will are scheduled once a year. Parents are encouraged to attend this meeting, as it enables insight into their child’s development.
• Verbal Communication:  We are here to serve you, and encourage parents to seek a friendly rapport with teachers and staff. You can make contact with a staff member at drop off and pick up each day. However, note that the main responsibility of your child’s teacher is supervision of the classroom. Any lengthy conversation will need to be communicated via phone or at an arranged meeting. Every staff member will have an individual email account through which parents can contact their child’s teacher. These communication methods are preferred over conferencing at the classroom door.

Family Involvement
We encourage full family involvement at every opportunity. Some possible ways to join our community are:

• Volunteering as your schedule permits. Teachers can always use the help and the children love having special visitors.
• Donating materials or supplies to the classroom for various activities and/or parties.
• Help organize class parties. Preschool parties are fairly simple affairs but we always welcome parent ideas.
• Do you have a handyman or a seamstress in your family? Your services can be quite useful to the program!
• Participate in fundraisers – they benefit everyone.
• Do you have a career or area of expertise that would fascinate our friends? Join us and share your talents with a special presentation or activity that will help us experience the “real world” hands on!
• Be a communicator – with your child’s teacher and especially your child. Ask questions and provide information.
• Attend Westgate events (i.e. Green & Gold Gala and Pride Prowl)