Essential Tips for Parents and Students
Preparing for the new school year can be a challenging but exciting time for families in Des Moines. For families with children attending private schools in the area, getting ready for back-to-school means more than just buying supplies. From ensuring proper attendance to understanding each school’s unique requirements, there’s much to consider.
Des Moines private schools, such as Bergman Academy and St. Anthony Continuation School, are known for their commitment to excellence and inclusivity. Given the ongoing challenges presented by Covid-19, it’s important for parents to stay informed about any new health and safety protocols.
The Des Moines community offers various resources to help parents and students with their preparations. For instance, The Little White Schoolhouse in Ankeny offers valuable tips for a smooth transition back to school. These include setting a regular sleep schedule and ensuring that children are mentally and emotionally ready for the new school year.
Essential Back-to-School Checklist
Parents and students need to be well-prepared for a smooth start to the school year. Key areas to focus on include classroom supplies, health and safety protocols, and technology readiness.
Classroom Supplies
Ensure that each student has all the required school supplies like notebooks, pencils, pens, and erasers. Des Moines Private Schools often provide a specific list of items needed for the school year, so it’s crucial to check that list thoroughly.
Backpacks should be sturdy and large enough to hold textbooks, laptops, and other essentials. Don’t forget about art supplies such as markers, glue, and scissors, especially for younger children.
Labeling all items can prevent loss, especially for younger students. Uniforms and appropriate clothing should also be prepared ahead of time, considering any specific dress code requirements.
Health and Safety Protocols
Health screenings are vital before students return. Many schools require updated vaccination records based on state law. Some may also offer onsite physicals to simplify this process.
With the ongoing Covid-19 situation, it’s important to follow all health guidelines set forth by the school. This can include wearing masks, regular handwashing, and social distancing measures. Student mental health is another key focus area, with schools providing resources to assist students in coping with stress and anxiety as they transition back to school.
Parents should be aware of the school’s protocols for dealing with any Covid-19 cases, including quarantine procedures and remote learning options if necessary.
Technology Readiness
Continuous learning often depends on being technologically prepared. Students should have access to a reliable laptop or tablet and ensure it is fully functional at the start of the school year. Many schools, including Des Moines Public Schools, offer Free Wi-Fi programs to assist families in need.
Software required for classes should be installed, and students should be familiar with platforms like Google Classroom or Zoom. It’s also a good idea to have contingency plans if there are tech issues that arise.
Parents might want to check the school’s website for any tech support services they offer. Being proactive in this regard will help ensure a smooth and uninterrupted learning experience.
School Community Engagement
Des Moines private schools are focusing on improving student attendance, encouraging parental involvement, boosting extracurricular activities, and supporting teacher and staff needs. These efforts help build a strong school community.
Boosting Attendance
Ensuring students attend school regularly is essential for their academic success. Everyday Matters campaigns use billboards and social media to remind families about the importance of attendance. Schools in the Des Moines Metro Area work with the County Attorney Offices to address issues like chronic absenteeism. Initiatives such as the Back 2 School Bash provide school supplies to help low-income families prepare for the school year. Implementing strategies to keep attendance high ensures a better learning environment for everyone.
Parental Involvement
Active participation from parents is crucial in private schools, such as Ankeny Christian Academy and other preschools. Regular parent-teacher meetings and volunteer opportunities encourage families to engage with the school. Schools often rely on fundraising events and parent councils to support their programs. Parents are encouraged to join committees and offer feedback, strengthening the school’s policies and practices. This level of involvement helps create a supportive environment for students both at home and in school.
Extracurricular Activities
Extracurricular activities are vital for holistic student development. Schools in West Des Moines and Urbandale offer various clubs, sports, and arts programs. Participation in these activities helps students build social skills, leadership abilities, and time management. Schools support diverse interests, from sports teams to music bands and drama clubs. Encouraging students to join extracurricular activities also helps them discover new passions and hobbies that can contribute to their overall well-being and academic success.
Supporting Teacher and Staff
Schools must focus on the recruitment and retention of teachers to enhance educational quality. Efforts to fill teacher vacancies include partnerships with local universities and graduate schooling programs. Schools often have a Recruitment and Retention Team to streamline this process. Additionally, offering professional development and leadership positions to staff members can boost morale and improve teaching practices. Events like the Back-to-School Celebration also help in recognizing and energizing the staff before a new school year begins. Supporting teachers effectively contributes to a positive and productive learning environment.
By focusing on these aspects, Des Moines private schools can foster a strong, engaged school community that benefits students, parents, teachers, and staff alike.
