Parent Communication Preferences

We do a combination of all of the above:

1. I would say our largest method of ongoing communication is the newsletter.  Each of our 21 schools manage their own weekly newsletter that provides both school level and district level updates.

500. If we need something in real-time, we use our SIS’s communication and another communication app.  We like the app as it is a 2-way communication, so parents can text back right from the message.

100. Social media is used in real-time, but more as a “bonus”, never as a method to assume parents were able to see.

2. We only do Parent-teacher conferences 2 times a year (unless by additional request), so I would say that is our least vital communication source.

If focusing solely on information/engagement I would argue B since you would have that parent directly either in person or virtual with you at a one on one meeting.  There’s pros and cons to this and preference is also going to weigh in, but it fosters more of a dialogue and chance to ask questions and comment  (engagement) as opposed to passively receiving the information.

Happy to hear what others have to say and answer any follow up questions.

Hi Logan!

We have formal communications with our parents in the following ways:

• District Newsletter (Twice a month)
• Building Newsletter (Weekly)
• School Messenger App
• Social Media
• District/Building Websites (Managed by the District)
• Community Newsletter (Quarterly)
• Parent / Teacher Conferences (Annually in the fall)

In addition communications may come from teachers/classrooms, coaches/club advisors and PTOs to name a couple of other potential resources.

We do an annual communication survey (using Qualtrics) to gather feedback.

Hands down, the most popular ways in which our parents consume our information are:

• Building Newsletters (Weekly)
• School Messenger App
• District Newsletter (Twice a Month)
• Direct contact from Teachers

Social media, district/school/teacher websites and PTOs were also cited as sources, but at a fraction of the responses to the sources listed above.

LMK if you have any questions!

Our most effective tool is for in the moment updates is through our communication app. It allows us to send message to distinct groups (district all, building, grade, class, or individual families). It has two way communication capabilities. 

Our next best option is social media. Between our district accounts and building level accounts, we are able to communicate with families and the broader community.