Back to School Night

Last night was "Back to School Night" at my school, and we had a really great turnout!

Our 5th grade team decided last year to set up stations so that our students and parents had things to do instead of just standing in a long line waiting to shake hands with the teacher. We wanted to encourage them to interact with the other students and parents, and we also wanted to be able to circulate and have time to meet them and make some personal connections instead of repeating the same information 90 times.

We created a checklist to help guide parents through the stations. (Click here if you would like to see it.) Here is the basic set up in each classroom:

Google Doc Station: We created a Google Form for parents to fill out information about their student, including allergies, volunteer availability, and anything they would like us to know about their student.

Notecard Station: Parents can write a note to their student that they will receive on the first day of school. I LOVE this part of the first day because students really enjoy reading their parent's messages! (We always write notes for any students whose parents did not make it to Back to School Night.)

Specials Station: Since 5th grade is the first year that students start receiving individualized Special Area schedules (PE, Art, Music, Chorus, etc.), this is always a major area of concern for families. We try to get information out early so that parents have time to make any necessary changes before school starts. We print out the entire 5th grade schedule, and students can find their name and check it. They can also see if their friends share any classes!

Flipgrid Station: This was my FAVORITE station! Why? Because it was so much fun watching parents and students having fun, laughing, and making goofy faces for selfies together! I set up a grid that just asked parents to introduce themselves and share as much (or as little) as they wanted.

Remind Information: We utilize the tool Remind to push out information about assignments, school events, or any other important information related to school. We printed flyers with all the information parents need to get signed up for their account and join our class.

I had a great time getting to meet students, and I even had some students from last year stop in to give hugs and say hello!

What type of activities does your school or team enjoy doing at Back to School night? I would love for you to share!

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