March, 2009

Dear Kindergarten Parents and Friends,

We value “parents as partners” in kindergarten literacy.  Thank you for volunteering to join us in our classroom to help make this a joyful and successful year for all of our children.  Please read over the following guidelines and talk to me about anything that may not be clear.  Then sign this Professionalism Commitment.  (It is absolutely essential that we can trust teachers and volunteers to be just as respectful of privacy as our doctors are.)

• Our kindergarten is a safe and happy environment:  We respect each child’s individual rate and style of learning.  We are very professional and respectful of the privacy of our children and their families: We do not talk about individual students outside of the classroom.
• Before coming to the classroom, all volunteers must sign in at the school office.  Please check in at the office each time before you join us and wear a visitor’s nametag.  This is for the safety of our children and our staff.
• Please read our Kindergarten Philosophy and Photo Essay Notebook.  As you read through it, you will have a better understanding of how our children learn.
• If you are committing to a weekly work block, it is your responsibility to find another parent volunteer if you need to be absent.  We all count on you.
• Always use a soft, friendly voice when working in the classroom.
• Encourage the children to do as much of the work as they can.  Invite them to tell you about what they are doing.  Assist only when you feel a child has done all he or she can; then provide the support the child needs to be successful.
• If you are working with a small group, move from child to child, giving each child special attention and engaging them in conversations. Give positive, encouraging feedback.  See Language That Empowers Children
• Please remember to focus on the children and save adult conversations for later.  Information about individual learners is only discussed with the teacher.
• Be enthusiastic and enjoy the children.  Know that your work makes a difference in the lives of our children and the richness of our classroom.

I understand and am committed to these guidelines.

Volunteer Signature

Permission granted for teachers to use or adapt for families with credits noted. A Nellie Edge Parent Information Letter ©2006.