Every School and Community is Unique. What do Parents Need in 2023?
Parenting is tough. It is complex and very personal. Every family is unique, from the children's ages to the cultures in the family unit. Why did I create this place for parents who want to be positively involved in their child’s education (including early childhood)? The perspective of the parent who values education matters, especially when media outlets highlight parents who do not see educators as valuable team members. That is why I would like you to comment below on a celebration of your child’s education or how you would like to get involved.
Parents are busy cultivating great connections with their kids. Parents and caregivers may be shuffling their children to soccer or working a second job. Your thoughts matter; there is a space below to write your thoughts as you pause during your busy day. I am a new parent, so I have not been around the block as long as some of you may have. I want to support you in 2023, so please write down any strategies or resources you may need. Why I want parent reassurance and resources to be an essential part of Stunning Jade came from a conversation I had with one parent.
I taught seventh-grade history that year. Students were creating WWII propaganda posters. I scanned my bulletin board, and one caught my eye. The writing and drawing were excellent, and I decided this would be a part of my positive notifications home. I did this at the end of each day. I would email, call, or ask a school translator to call home for some students who did great in class that day. The student with the artwork was my last phone call.
The mom picked up with a lot of background noise. She assured me she could still talk as she was on her break. I shared with her the positive comments about her daughter’s work. The mother was waiting for the catch. When she realized there was not one, she mentioned how grateful she was for that phone call. After the call, I packed my bags and closed my classroom door. Little did I know my regular end-of-day routine would be shattered.
It was March 2020. The governor of my state announced that afternoon schools were closed. My group of students that year were terrific. They were kind, witty and made great connections with the content. We were going into the exciting end-of-year activities. That would never occur. I just sat staring at the article and then began sobbing.
That was the last day of in-person classes for almost a year. Parents and caregivers had to learn much about teaching, and teachers had to change their craft overnight. Throughout virtual and hybrid instruction, I focused on the skills I gained. I became a much stronger educator. It made me practice patience and being flexible constantly. Some students did well in virtual learning. Some students wanted to improve and build connections. Unfortunately, that was not highlighted. Society kept focusing on the negative rather than the growth of some students. When those struggles did occur, I kept coming back to that conversation. So many parents do care.
Continue doing great things for your children. Please let us know what you would like to see this next year. Every family and every community is unique, and your insight would be of great value.
If you believe email is best, you can also contact hello@stunningjade.com.
