Summer is ending and the new school year will be starting in just a couple of days! Here are some helpful tips for parents from some of our public school teachers.  Whether you have children in kindergarten or in high school, these are some basic tips to keep in mind as you help them either start school for the first time or transition into a new grade level.  We highly encourage parents to stay involved in their child’s education as this is an important factor in determining a child’s progress in school.       
 
  • Make sure shot records are up-to-date (Free TB Testing for GFT members, their spouse and children this Saturday, August 18th from 9am to 3pm at the GFT Office)
  • Set an early bedtime schedule, have your child get enough sleep (at least 8 hours)
  • Always start the day with a healthy breakfast
  • Make sure your child’s backpacks are secured the night before to avoid the morning rush of the “first day” 
  • Have basic school supplies ready in your child’s backpacks (notebooks, pencils, filler paper & folders)
  • Talk to you child about the new school year and their teacher(s)
  • Check homework nightly  
  • Encourage your child to be proactive in their school work.  If they don’t understand something, then they can ask their teacher. 
  • Check Bus Schedules listed in the PDN
  • Get to know your child’s school community (teachers, principals, office staff, school nurse, counselors, school aides, bus drivers, etc.)
  • Get involved with your child’s Parent Teacher Organization 
  • Keep your child’s school and teacher contact information