Strengthening Home-School Partnerships: Strategies for General Classroom Teachers
This 6-week, 15-hour professional learning course is designed to equip general classroom teachers with the knowledge, tools, and strategies necessary to build and sustain meaningful family engagement in K-12 classrooms. Drawing on peer-reviewed research and evidence-based practices, the course focuses on the practical, day-to-day communication, planning, and relational skills that teachers need to foster strong connections with families from diverse backgrounds. Participants will explore the foundations of family engagement, develop inclusive communication routines, and examine the role of cultural responsiveness and social-emotional collaboration in student success.
Readings, videos, podcasts, and structured assignments will guide teachers through self-reflection, real-world application, and collaborative planning. By the end of the course, participants will produce a customized, year-long family engagement action plan that can be implemented in their classroom or school community, supporting ongoing partnerships that improve academic outcomes and student well-being.
Key Topics Include:
Foundations and benefits of family engagement
Effective communication routines for the general classroom
Culturally responsive and equitable outreach strategies
Collaborating with families to support academic and social-emotional development
Designing classroom-based engagement events and home learning connections
FORMAT: Asynchronous online learning
DATES: 10/20/25 - 12/1/25
FACILITATOR: Andrea Mistretta, Whitehall CSD Social Studies
GCRTC CONTACT: Erica Boms Egdemir, GCRTC Teacher Leadership Coach for the Humanities
FEE: None. Registration is required.
CTLE HOURS: 15
REGISTRATION: https://tinyurl.com/kysy4jcf