"Moving Up Night"
Our school recently hosted a “Moving Up Night” for parents to receive information on the upcoming school year by grade level. For example, as a third grade teacher, I fielded questions from parents of prospective second graders. Third grade is generally an anxiety provoking thought in most parent’s minds due to the mandated End-of-Grade state test. Each grade level received a tri-fold board to post information and decorate at our will. Above is the tri fold I made for my grade level. (I apologize for lack of readability in the image; all photos can be found on my webpage). The event was held in the cafeteria in a maze like pattern so parents could casually walk through the gallery of grade levels at their desired pace, and stop at a specific table to ask a few questions. This was a more laid back event, rather than brining parents into a room and talking at them for an hour. I think this approach made the night successful because it was more personalized.
I think this event is extremely important for a school to provide for parents and students. Summer proves to be a time period where students lose skills. “Moving Up Night” helps give parents an idea of the curriculum to be covered, and students can begin to get a head start during the summer by focusing on those topics. Also, the transition from 2nd to 3rd is quite big. Therefore, getting a jump start on skills, students will enter the classroom in the fall more prepared for a successful school year. Besides this specific transition, this event is important for all grade levels. It is extremely informative and eases fears. Teachers were able to showcase their grade level in terms of student projects, topics taught, specific events held, and overall just excite the prospective students.
Afterwards, I stayed to help out at “Beginners Night” for rising Kindergarteners. This event had the largest turn out due to it being a huge transition from preschool into an elementary school environment. Parents generally gather in the auditorium to meet the Principal and hear from various staff members about the district curriculum, school philosophy, and other logistical topics. Students met Kindergarten teachers in their rooms to read a book and do a corresponding activity. This allowed parents to gather together for the presentation while the kids got to know one another and their potential teachers.
Both of these events receive positive feedback each year. I highly encourage your school to host these events if they don’t already.
What does your school do to help with grade level transitions?
Are there other school events you feel are important and should be implemented?
About the author, Gretchen
I am a teacher trainer and coach. Working elbow to elbow with teachers and teacher leaders to ensure instructional proficiency and student achievement soar lights me up. We have a real need in our nation for strong educators to remain in the field. My blog, book, podcast, courses and instructional materials are geared towards empowering teachers (and those that lead them) to receive the support needed to grow and thrive today, tomorrow and always.