A Heart of Gratitude

A teacher is more than merely an educator. They dedicate numerous hours to preparing lessons, analyzing data, mastering strategies to enhance student learning, and constantly participating in professional learning to refine their teaching methods. Teachers exceed the role of an educator. They act as mentors, parents, social service workers, motivators, and performers. A teacher provides comfort, wipes away the tears of distressed children, and is attentive to the physical needs of children who might be unwell. This Thanksgiving, East Central GLRS is grateful to all the teachers, support staff, and administrators who go above and beyond daily to meet the needs of all children. Thank you for your service and dedication to students in the Heart of Georgia Region! You are appreciated!

November is Family Engagement Month

Each student and each family is important. November 21, 2024, has been declared as Family Engagement Day in Georgia by Governor Brian Kemp.

Studies show that when families are involved in schools, it leads to positive impacts on students, such as enhanced academic performance, reduced disciplinary problems, better relationships between parents and teachers, and a more favorable school atmosphere (Henderson & Mapp, 2002).

Teachers have numerous methods to connect with the families of their students. Employing positive communication is a key approach to establish strong school-family relationships. When a student demonstrates exceptional behavior or puts in extra effort on assignments, it is beneficial to inform their parents through a phone call or by sending a positive message home. Another effective engagement tactic is to communicate through regular newsletters, whether weekly or monthly, to keep families informed about classroom events and chances for volunteering.

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act guarantees that families of students with disabilities can engage meaningfully in the educational journey. Educators who establish positive connections with parents of children with disabilities are paving the way for their students' success. Viewing parents as genuine collaborators meets the legal requirements and embodies the law's essence.

Teachers play a crucial role in fostering a supportive atmosphere that encourages parents to actively engage in the educational journey. Anne T. Henderson and others, featured in the IRIS Center's Perspectives & Resources module on Building Positive Relationships, offer insights and strategies emphasizing the significance of teachers and schools in establishing a friendly setting, appreciating students' strengths, nurturing trust, and respecting parents as primary decision-makers. Through various categories in the building positive relationships module, the IRIS Center equips educators with resources and guidance to effectively involve families in enhancing outcomes for students with disabilities. Explore the links below for more information on promoting family engagement.

Resources

• Project Appleseed identifies Six Slices of Family Engagement

• https://sedl.org/connections/resources/evidence.pdf

• https://parentmentors.org/our-work/our-work-with-schools/family-engagement-modules/

• https://parentmentors.org/our-work/our-work-with-schools/gadoe-structures-of-family-engagement/

2024 Family Engagement Month Letter.pdf

Download PDF • 132KB

Understanding the Importance of National School Psychologists Week

National School Psychologist Week is from November 11 to 15, and this year's theme is "Spark Discovery." The theme emphasizes the important role school psychologists play in fostering each student's potential.

The role of a school psychologist is multifaceted and crucial in the educational system. While assessing students is a significant aspect of their work, their responsibilities go far beyond that. School psychologists play a pivotal role in fostering a collaborative environment among students, teachers, and parents to ensure the holistic success of students. By working closely with these stakeholders, they are able to address the academic, social, and emotional challenges that students may face.

In addition to their collaborative efforts, school psychologists bring a unique expertise in conducting psychological evaluations. These evaluations are instrumental in identifying students' individual needs and determining the appropriate services and interventions to support their academic and personal growth. By being part of educational teams, school psychologists contribute valuable insights that help tailor educational plans to meet the diverse needs of students.

School psychologists are instrumental in promoting a positive school climate and supporting the mental health and well-being of students. They provide counseling services, crisis intervention, and guidance on behavioral management strategies to create a safe and nurturing environment for all students. Their work also extends to addressing issues such as bullying, social skills development, and conflict resolution, contributing to the overall social-emotional development of students.

Overall, the role of a school psychologist is indispensable in promoting students' academic success and well-being. Through their collaborative approach, expertise in psychological evaluations, and dedication to supporting students' holistic development, school psychologists play a vital role in creating a positive and inclusive educational environment for all students.

This shout-out goes to all the Heart of Georgia Regional School Psychologists! You are an incredible group of professionals dedicated to improving the lives of children. We thank you for your ongoing efforts to enrich the lives of all students. You are the best of the best, and you are appreciated!