Possibly the most brilliant thing I’ve done to date August 5, 2009

I sent out an email last night with the three surveys attached that I last posted about.  It is quite possibly the most brilliant thing I’ve done in my teaching (very short) career.

I already have three responses back.  The information shared in those three responses is critical.  I have a better understanding of what my parents’ ideals and expectations are, and I already feel as though I know these students.  The service hours survey has already provided me with some good ideas to effectively use my willing volunteers in the classroom.  One parent is a certified fitness instructor and is willing to teach the students about health and fitness and even teach a kids yoga class.  Another parent speaks German and has lived and traveled overseas.  She is willing to share her experiences.

I couldn’t be more elated right now.  I knew that if my parents and students filled these surveys out that I would get some good information, I just didn’t realize how valuable it would be.  I’m excited to get the rest of the repsonses.

First contact August 4, 2009

I got my first parent email today.

It was lovely.

My director has been meeting with all of the families to outline the vision of the school and to begin a relationship with each family that will lead to amazing success for our school.  I am really impressed with his decision to do meet with each family.  It really personalizes the school experience.

A parent of one of my students met with him today and asked for my email address.  She stated that she hoped I didn’t mind that she already contacted me.  I don’t mind at all!  I am quite excited to already be making those personal contacts.  She is so excited for this school and said that she will do anything and everything she can despite her busy schedule of working full time and going to school to support me, her son, and his classmates.

Wow.  I am floored.  I knew that there was great potential for family support since this is a choice school, but I am so incredibly grateful to be reassured that I have a great support system.  It is parents like her that will make this school and my first year the best.