A Letter to our Parents about our Teachers

Dear Parents/Families,

Is it really that time of year already? I literally feel like I blinked and summer slipped away. That comes with a mixture of feelings for me. There’s excitement, nervousness and lots of anxiety. On day one all of our summer planning comes to life. Can I tell you how nerve wracking that is? We have the responsibility for the well-being and safety of about 700 students and one minor mistake can put a wrinkle in our whole plan. So, we work hard at putting the pieces together, rely on others to help us look for potential problems, and then we hold our breath and hope that it all works that first day and it will.

We go into this not wanting to let anyone down. Not a staff member, not a parent and most importantly, not a child. They count on us each and everyday. YOU count on us each and everyday to ensure that your child is well cared for, safe and educated. I promise you that is what we all strive to do each day.

But, we aren’t perfect.

We are human.

We make mistakes.

We have bad days.

So, as we start this school year and you send us your child each day please know a few things about our teachers and staff:

1. Our number 1 concern is the safety of your child. So, we will probably inconvenience you by asking for your license, take your time as we dismiss safely, and maybe even question your whereabouts in the building. We do this because we care about your child.

2. We care very much for your child’s social and emotional well being. With that being said, your child may come home upset, crying or feeling confused about their day. It wasn’t intentional, but if you communicate with us we will adjust and do what we can to ensure that next day and every day after is a smile. We do this because we care about your child.

3. Be patient, we make mistakes. We forget to send homework home, forget to send an email to tell you about the day, misplace that attendance note, or maybe didn’t follow up on something we promised. Remind us and we will remind you when you need it. It’s not intentional, but it happens to all of us. Please do this for us because we really do care about your child.

4. We want to be a team. Sometimes that means we may disagree or even be a bit upset with each other. Let’s work through it and work together because we both want what is best for your child and OUR relationship is key. Please remember this because we care about your child.

5. Please believe 50% of what your child tells you and we will believe 50% of what they tell us until we have time to touch base with each other. While we truly value your child’s perception, most times there is a more to a story than a child can articulate. Rather than assume, let’s ask each other questions and work through issues or concerns together if they arise AS A TEAM. We need to do this because we BOTH care about your child.

6. Please remember they have families and lives outside of school, but none of us turn off work. We are always reflecting and thinking about ways that we can improve to meet the needs of all kids. However, we may need 24 hours to get back to you when you reach out. We will get back to you because we care about your child.

7. Your child is important to us and we need your support. We will support you in return because we care about your child.

8. Our teachers are just as anxious as you and your child about starting a new school year. Not only are they preparing for a new set of amazing students, but they are overwhelmed with new information and professional development these first few days. Please take time to reach out if you have specific concerns about your child’s transition to school. We truly want it to be a positive one because we care.

It’s the beginning of a new year. This might be the first child you send to us or it might be your last, but I promise you our teachers will care for them. I ask you to trust us, but if that trust waivers that you take the time to work with us. It wasn’t intentional and we will do whatever we can to work as a team to nurture, support and educate your child like they are our own.

This year might bring you anxiety, nerves and worry. We have the same feelings, but if we take the time to remember that we both want what is best for your child we can get through it together! If you remember one thing from this post, remember that our teachers and staff put forth an incredible amount of time (sometimes sacrificing their own family) thinking about YOUR child because they truly care.

Looking forward to a great year. I know I treat these 700 students as if they are my own and would do anything to make sure they are safe, happy and leave our building with a solid foundation!

Sincerely,

Mrs. Myers