🎶First Year Choir Teachers: Tips for Effective Communication📱
When I was a brand new middle and high school choir teacher, I quickly learned two things about parent communication. (1) Students rarely took home the well-crafted informational letters/newsletters and permission slips I spent hours making and (2) If it did get home, only about half of the parents read it. It didn’t take me long to realize I needed MANY ways to communicate with parents.
Let’s dive into some quick tips and insights that I wish I had known during my first year.
A Comprehensive Choir Handbook 📘
On the first day of school, provide students with a choir handbook that outlines class expectations, performance calendars, concert attire details, and communication methods. This not only sets clear expectations for students but also ensures parents are well-informed. Send a copy of this handbook via email in case the paper copy is not brought home. If you want to save time, check out my Choir Handbook Template.
Leveraging Technology and Apps 📱
In today's tech-savvy world, utilize communication apps like "Remind" to keep parents and students informed about deadlines, fundraisers, and rehearsal schedules. These text alerts serve as quick and efficient reminders for busy parents.
Choir Newsletters 📧
To manage the multitude of choir commitments, send out weekly or bi-monthly "Choir Note" to parents via email. These digital newsletters provide information on upcoming events, important dates, and a yearly calendar. Once in a while, you will get a parent who doesn’t “do email”. Don’t forget to provide a paper copy for students to take home and stick on the counter or tape to the refrigerator. Consider requesting a spot in the school's monthly newsletter or even a place on the school’s website.
Incorporating Concert Programs 🎵
Include a list of upcoming choir dates in concert programs. This ensures that parents have the information at hand during performances and serves as an additional reminder to mark those dates on their calendars. Check out my 3 Music Concert Program Templates if you need inspiration.
Parent Involvement 👪
Encourage active involvement by creating a designated space for parents to access "Choir Notes," permission slips, and performance dates. Regularly update this information and don't hesitate to seek parent assistance when needed. Many parents may be eager to contribute to choir events or fundraisers. We have a choir website, but check with your district. If you are allowed to host your own website, ask for a parent volunteer to create a site for you.
Navigating Challenging Parent Emails 📬
While maintaining positive communication, be prepared for “challenging” emails. If the matter is not urgent, take your time to respond. We do not want to train parents into thinking that you will respond 24/7. For urgent concerns, consider a phone call to address the issue calmly and professionally. Remember, less is more, and suggesting a meeting with administration can be a proactive approach.
Celebrating Successes 🎉
Don't forget the positive side of communication. Regularly express appreciation to parents for their child's participation in choir. Share specific anecdotes or send personalized emails, initiating conversations that help build a positive relationship. Send a positive email for each student early on in the school year. Parents love to hear from you!
In the choir classroom, effective communication is the KEY for building lasting relationships with not only students but also their parents. By implementing these strategies, you can create a supportive community around your choir program, ensuring both students and parents are actively engaged and enthusiastic about the joy of music. Share your favorite communication methods with our choir teacher community by emailing me at the bottom of the page.
Happy Singing! 🎤
