This year we need to form partnerships with parents like never before! I’m always adovcating, along with other educators and communties, with a message that when we come together, our students’ successes grow exponentially! But now, with distance learning and at-home schooling options, parents and teachers have to get on the same page. Lucky for us, there are three trustworthy communties we can lean on to continue growing in this area.
#1 ParentCamp
My top recommended community to join and follow is ParentCamp.org. This organization believes when we bring families, schools, and communties together, there is no problem that can’t be solved! They encourage to move away from compliancy issues towards inclusivity. They advocate connection for the sake of our students. They host weekly viritual meetings with a combination of educators, parents, and community members. The topics discussed are chosen by those who attend. All are welcome! Three of the leaders you want to follow are Laura Gilchrist, Julie Pile, and Jeremy Bond. On Twitter, you can follow #ParentCamp for chats!
#2 The EDUTable
This community has most of its hits on Twitter. They use the #PullUpASeat to discuss hot topics with parents and educators. They’ve tackled issues regarding 504 and IEP implementation and what that truly looks like in schools. They get real about how as educators we aren’t always trained properly to carry out IEPs. They advocate on ways that parents can be the squeaky wheel to make sure their children are getting the services necessary for success. Leaders to follow are Melissa Sidebotham and Nicole Biscotti.
#3 ParentSquare Learning Network
ParentSquare is a communication platform for schools and parents, but for educators, it’s even more. Every month, they focus on a different topic but right now they are doing all they can to help educators plan for distance learning. It’s eductors for educators. They have monthly webinars to match the theme/topic of the month that focus on building community. I recommend following them on Twitter @ParentSquare but my favorite place to collaborate with them is in their Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pslearningnetwork The leader to follow is Rachelle Dene Poth. She is an amazing networker and is always sharing opportunties for other educators who have powerful messages to share!
Follow all three communties or choose your favorite, but you can’t go wrong with these three leaders in building community with families!
About the Author
Melody McAllister is a wife, mother of five, educator, and author. She and her family relocated to Alaska from the Dallas area in 2019. McAllister is 2017 Garland NAACP Educator of the Year and author of the I’m Sorry Story, a children’s book about taking responsibility for mistakes and making sincere apologies. She is also the Logistics Manager for EduMatch Publishing. McAllister has spoken at ISTE and ASTE about equity issues in education, and writes about her journey in her blog, HeGaveMeAMelody.com.