Since When?

When did it actually happen that parents were NOT a welcomed, encouraged part of the educational process.  As a teacher, I view parents as an extension of my hand and the heart of my reach towards my student!  It's frustrating for parents to be ill-informed and uneducated about the ins and outs of the classroom.  According to recent research one of the primary factors in the success of a child's education is parent interest and support (Berger, 1995).  Schools that welcome and support parent involvement also tend to outperform schools without parental involvement.  Teachers are the HEART at this communication.  I make a true effort to contact each and every parent by the end of the first week of school...This year I accomplished this task by contacting 84 of 90 parents by Friday at 5pm.  I'll have to work to track down those 6 parents but mark my words...I shall!  These contacts were all personalized, positive and provided parents with my contact information and expectations.  I have found throughout the years, this is the number one way to ensure support.  I always end the conversation with "please tell your child that we spoke about how amazing s/he is doing in my class".  This way the child also knows I have follow through and when I tell them, "I will call your parents and we will be successful", they know I mean what I say!  This first initial contact also ensures that when follow up conversations occur regarding the child in any positive or negative light, I have already established a relationship.  Parents are KEY to connecting with the child!  ALWAYS EMBRACE THEM, WELCOME THEM, and SUPPORT THEM!