Creating a Classroom Handbook

Most parents are interested in their child's school life.  In response to this, many schools are developing classroom and school handbooks, brochures, policies and procedure manuals, class and program schedules, calendars, computer information networks, videotapes, and other products to assist parents with the wide range of information needed to help them with their child's education.  A real problem between school and home communication is that the school does not often take into account the parents reading level and native language.  Also, different parents need different communications specific to their child (i.e. a teacher would not want to send a communication to all families that only concerns the families of students with disabilities).  Parents of children with disabilities may need information that is specific to a situation.  Teachers can provide a real service by preparing specific handouts for parents of children in their classrooms.

An example of a classroom handbook cover page

Preparing a Handbook:
The classroom handbook is one of the  most important communication tools for teachers.  Handbooks should be short, attractive, inclusive, and well written at a level (and offered in different languages) the parents can understand.  If possible, offer the parents access to the handbook online (see creating a classroom website video below) and in physical form.  It is also beneficial to develop a completely separate handbook for parents of students with disabilities that addresses issues that are specific only to them (this can be created in partnership with the special education team at your school).  Do not duplicate information that is already in the school handbook, this should be more specific to your classroom.  Here are some things to be considered as you prepare your classroom handbook:

1. Special personnel. Include the names and phone numbers of school personnel the parents may need to contact (principal, teacher, counselor, nurse, etc.).  You might also include office hours and best times to call and how to make an appointment.
2. Classroom procedures.  Any technique unique to the classroom should be emphasized (the use of material rewards, time-outs, early dismissal time, etc.)  The fewer surprises that parents have, the smoother the year will go.  Also include any special testing forms or field trip request forms that are different from the general school forms. Daily class schedule.
3. Classroom materials and supplies.  Teachers often call upon parents to provide materials.  Offer a material list that parents are to provide at the beginning and throughout the school year.
4. Transportation. Parents should be informed of the bus schedule and special rules and regulations required for transportation.
5. Conference and reporting system.  The schedule for parent-teacher conferences and how parents can arrange for special conferences should be given.  If report cards are used, parents should be informed of the type of card and when they can expect to receive it.  Also, suggestions or parent tips for parent-teacher conferences should be offered.
6. Additional information.  Tips for parents on managing behavior.  List of agencies that parents can contact for special services or books they might want to read.  Prices of lunch programs.  Educational opportunities (free zoo day, online educational resources, etc.) And, anything else you deem important for parents of your students to know.

Here is an example of a 2nd grade classroom handbook: Second Grade Handbook
Here is an example of a 1st grade classroom webpage: First Grade Webpage
Here are some suggestions on what to include in your classroom handbook: Classroom Handbook Suggestions and Templates

Video on how to create a google based classroom website (great way to place the classroom handbook in parents hands anywhere they go...be aware that not all parents will have the same access to the technology necessary to view your website!)-