Engaging with your students and families over the summer months is incredibly important in maintaining and strengthening relationships. Many principals have shared how they connect with families over the summer. Below are some of my favorites:
Michael Courington’s school has a book mobile that travels around town! What an amazing way for students to wrap their hands around a book for the summer!
Mandy Ellis hosts events where her students can engage with their principal and listen to a wonderful story!
Amber Teamann hosts Popsicles with the Principal & Chalk the Walk, where families and students come and leave inspiring messages on the sidewalks surrounding the elementary school for the 1st day.
I send out a S’more Summer Update to families, filled with important beginning of the year information & introductions to new faces/staff members they may see at our school! I’m also to include exciting information about staff, like engagements/weddings/new babies or “Kubbies” who’ve joined our school family….as I want our community to see the staff as family.
We also incorporate FLIPGRID into our summer communications with families!
On this Meet the Staff FLIPGRID (password is Kennedy81), our families have the opportunity to get to know our large (100 person) staff!
**I’ve also used FlipGrid with staff in the weeks prior to everyone returning to school! I asked everyone to record a video, introducing themselves & what position they are in, as well as something they’re looking forward to in the coming school year. It’s a great way for our new teachers to put a face to the name of their future colleagues….and for our returning staff to get to know some of our newest members!
How do you engage your students/families over the summer months?
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