FACTSHEET

Aug. 28, 2012

Ministry of Education

 

Back-to-school tips for parent involvement

 

VICTORIA – With the new school year starting on Sept. 4, here are ways parents can support their child’s education:

 

Get to know your child’s teacher by:

·         Attending parent/teacher conferences and asking how your child is doing.

·         Telling the teacher about your child’s special needs, interests or challenges.

·         Finding out if the teacher communicates by telephone, email, website, or notes home.

 

Work with teachers and your child to create a Personalized Learning plan.

Here are some suggestions:

·         Help your child select courses that will capture their imagination and passion as well as challenge them.

·         Support your child’s use of technology to connect with worldwide information and learning opportunities.

·         Encourage participation in extra-curricular activities that promote innovation, creativity, collaboration and social responsibility.

·         Use community resources such as public libraries, parks and recreation centres to enhance learning and healthy activity.

 

Here are ways to get more involved with your child’s school.

·         Volunteer to be a guest speaker.

·         Volunteer to help with field trips or special events such as concerts and school fairs.

·         Help with a sports team by assisting with coaching or equipment.

·         Use your creative skills (sewing, set-making, musical accompaniment) to help with choir or a theatre production.

·         Help with transportation or chaperone events.

·         Take part in service projects and fundraisers like food bank and clothing drives, garage sales, bake sales and bottle drives.

·         If you speak another language, offer to translate at Parent Advisory Council meetings, so parents from your cultural community can participate even if they aren’t confident in English or French yet.

·         Attend a school event with your children and help cheer on their school.

 

Through B.C.’s Education Plan, the B.C. government is encouraging Personalized Learning. Find out more at: BC Education Plan

 

 

Contact:

Government Communications and Public Engagement Ministry of Education 250 356-5963

 

Connect with the Province of B.C. at: www.gov.bc.ca/connect