COMMUNICATING
BASIC RESPONSIBILITIES OF SCHOOLS
SCHOOL-TO-HOME COMMUNICATIONS
Memos, notices, report cards, conferences, newsletters, phone calls, computerized messages
Information on school programs, tests, and children's progress
Information to choose or change schools, courses, programs, or activities
HOME-TO-SCHOOL COMMUNICATIONS
Two-way channels of communication for questions and interactions
SAMPLE PRACTICES
Conferences with every parent at least once a year with follow-ups as needed
Language translators to assist families as needed
Folders of student work sent home weekly or monthly for parent review and comments
Parent and student pickup of report cards
Regular schedule of useful notices, memos, phone calls, and other communications
Effective newsletters including information about questions, reactions, and suggestions
Clear information about choosing schools, and selecting courses, programs, and activities within schools
Clear information on all school policies, programs, reforms, assessments, and transitions
Annual survey of families on students' needs and families' suggestions and reactions to school programs