“If there is only school without family, or only family without school, neither can solely undertake the intricate and complex task of shaping a person.” — Sukhomlinsky.
In a child’s education, both parents and teachers play essential roles in the growth process. At the start of the school year, SUIS Qingpu successfully strengthened the partnership between home and school through activities like Parent Meetings, Grade 1 Open Days, and parent tea gatherings.
Home-School Harmony: Parent Meetings
At the end of September, parents were welcomed into classrooms, where homeroom and subject teachers shared insights into their children’s school lives, covering aspects from daily performance to academic progress and life habits to social interactions. Teachers provided a comprehensive overview of the academic goals and various activities planned for the semester, and offered valuable advice on how parents can support their children’s learning at home, address growth challenges together, and be a strong foundation for their children’s growth journey. These heartfelt exchanges not only enhanced parents’ understanding of the school’s educational approach, but also established a strong beginning for effective home-school collaboration.
Home-school collaboration thrives when parents enter the child’s world and share in their growth experiences. During the Grade 1 Open Day, parents joined their children in various learning activities: In the Chinese language class, students rode the Pinyin train to collect learning gems; in math, they followed clues for an intellectual adventure; in English, they sang and danced to learn new expressions; in art, they painted vibrant pictures; in physical education, they played energetically; in STEAM, they explored static electricity through experiments; and in music, they moved energetically to the rhythm. This direct involvement in a dynamic learning environment strengthens the connection between home and school.
Heartfelt Moments: Parent Tea Gatherings
The Parent Tea Gathering offers comfort and support in home-school collaboration. In October, the school hosted five tea gatherings for parent representatives from Grades 1 to 5. These meetings focused on open discussions, where grade leaders talked with parents about important topics related to the children, parents, teachers, and the future.
Caring for the children: The school has created a moral education system to enhance children’s moral understanding and skills. It also encourages the use of the myON online reading platform to build strong reading habits. Each activity aims to help children thrive in their learning and holistic growth.
Caring for the parents: The school provides professional parenting courses to assist parents and has established a Parent Club where they can connect and grow together. In this supportive environment, parents can gain strength and learn how to become more effective parents while also focusing on their personal growth.
Caring for the teachers: The school supports teachers’ professional growth through various development activities to enhance their teaching skills. The school believes that outstanding teachers are essential guides in children’s educational journeys, and their knowledge and enthusiasm will brighten the children’s futures.
Everyone shared openly, communicated sincerely, and agreed on how to best support the children’s future development.
On our campus, each Parent Meeting, Open Day, and Parent Tea Gathering adds to the story of our children’s growth. We focus on sharing both knowledge and care. We are confident that, with the support of both home and school, every child can reach their full potential and stand out like a bright autumn leaf.
