7 Tips for a Successful Back to School Night!

Tip # 1-
Have an alphabetized sign in sheet!

If you take nothing else from this post. Do this! You'll thank me later. 

When you have to call parents, find an address, you don't have to flip through a thousand file folders, cards, or go to your computer. It will all be right there on one document! 

Tip # 2

Have a way to keep all of the papers together!

Whether it is a file folder, regular folder, or clipboard,  a stray paper can really throw off your groove.

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Tip #3-

Have something little for the kids to work on. Word searches, coloring pages may not have a place in the regular school hours, but it will help the parents get those pesky papers filled out faster. :)

Fun Idea! Create your own word search with your students' names. Here is a word search maker, 

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Tip #4-
Create a brochure or handout for parents that has all your info. 


But trust me on this, keep it short and simple. In my house, (I have five kids.) any piece of paper that can't be hung on the fridge for quick reference makes it to the trashcan faster than Capri Suns disappear on a hot day in Texas.

I recommend creating a class site with all this info. If you are at all techie driven. Weebly is super easy to use. :)

Tip # 5-
Pens, pens, and more pens. 

You'll need them. So will the parents. You'll already have everyone vying for your attention. Do yourself a favor and have way more than you need set out.

.Tip # 6
Have a question sheet or area posted?

A place where parents can write questions will allow them to have something to do while they wait to introduce themselves.

Some parent may need to sneak out because they have other kids' classrooms to visit. 

Or, another parent has a great deal to tell you and you can't seem to get away to answer other questions.

I love having parents write them on sticky notes and putting them on my whiteboard. Or, you could have them write them on a clipboard.

​Asking them to email you is fine, but chances are if one parent has a question, others will have the same. 

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 T
ip # 7
Plan a way out!
Some parents like to talk. (I'm one of them.) They are entrusting you with their treasure! I get it. You're excited to have them. But, there are SO many people who want your attention. 

Be prepared to re-direct the chatty parents to other staff members.  
"I'm so glad to hear you are a reader." (Walk towards door or your classroom library.) The library  is over this way. Why don't you see if we have anything you (student) might be interested?"

"Oh! You had (insert last year's teacher)! Have you seen her yet? Could you give her a hug for me?"


There you have it! Have a great "Back to School" night! 

Below are a few more resources for the beginning of the year if you are interested! Any tips, tricks, or books you like to share?