Connect with families to discuss how they are doing, share positive or encouraging messages, and inquire whether additional school support is required.
This practice:
is cost-efficient to put in place
is effective in promoting health and wellness among students
is well received by most students
is well received by teachers and school staff
is helping build and maintain a healthy school culture
will be used for years to come
reaches most students and families within a school
reaches the students and families who need it most
does not require support or partnerships from outside the school
does not require additional funding
is sustainable over time given staff turnover, costs, training, etc.
is easily integrated into the curriculum (Program of Studies)
But this practice:
is not easy and quick to implement
requires extensive planning
requires additional staff time
Examples of specific activities
Administer surveys to identify parent needs, and how the school can help
More from the stakeholders from the education and health sectors about this practice
It is always great to connect with the parents to see what they need.
Necessary! I wish all schools made this mandatory.
This is important, when families are facing a difficult time and students cannot be in school, reaching out to see how they can be supported can be comforting to students and their families.
Teachers can connect through email, text, phone calls - home visit, there is a way to reach every student.