Best foot forward

Every year I find myself shaking my head at some of the choices my students make during gift giving times of the year.  From teddy bears, jewelry boxes, dollar jewelry, mugs with inedible candy and even flowers with hidden underwear (yes its true) i have gotten it all.  I appreciate their effort and I completely believe in "its the thought that counts."  I also notice that parents are reluctant to open up and express their feeling and concerns with me until i have them one on one.

I have come to the conclusion that i must blame myself for not letting my students and their parents know more about me.  I usually just briefly speak to them during parent orientation and give them the facts about school.  So this year not only did I want to give my students' parents an insight into my life but also create a full picture of who i am, to be more personable and approachable.  Selfish?  Maybe, but hopefully this year i wont have to fill the trashcan with trinkets i will never use and parents will have a more open line of communication.

How i began to fix this?  A welcome letter that explains my educational background, home life, and a section with "My favorite Things."

So here is my best shot at creating relationships with parents and students.