GILROY
– Students went back to school Monday. Next, it will be their
parents’ turn.
By Lori Stuenkel
GILROY – Students went back to school Monday. Next, it will be their parents’ turn.
Gilroy schools begin holding back-to-school nights next Tuesday, offering parents a glimpse into their child’s academic world.
“It’s the first chance the parents really have to get together with the teacher and talk about special needs each child might have,” said Stephen Gilbert, principal of Rucker Elementary School.
Back-to-school night is a valuable opportunity for parents to get any type of information they need about how to help their child succeed in school, Gilbert said.
Teachers use their time with parents to talk about everything from curriculum to classroom rules. They usually make two presentations for parents who need to visit more than one classroom.
“I think (parents) want to know what their child’s going to learn and what their child’s expected to do,” said Tammy Gabel, principal of Antonio Del Buono Elementary School. “They want to know how they can help at home.”
Teachers will introduce the state’s academic standards for each grade level to parents, Gabel said. Parents will learn exactly what their child is expected to learn throughout the school year.
“The teacher can explain to the parents the expectations for the class,” Gilbert said, “on the instruction, how assignments should be completed, give out information about communicating with parents.”
The behavioral codes of conduct will also be reviewed, and parents can ask teachers specific questions regarding their child or classroom rules.
Back-to-school night usually offers parents a chance to sign up for the parents club for each school and get information about volunteer opportunities.
The night is primarily geared toward parents rather than children, so this is one school session students can skip if they choose, Gilbert said.
“It will be an adult conversation, but certainly it never hurts to have the kids there at the same time hearing the same message,” Gilbert said.
