Standard 4: Educators value the involvement and support of parents, guardians, families and communities in schools.

This standard means that teachers understand that their student is part of a community and family and that there are cultural differences that may need to be accepted and respected while also honoring the impact that families and other supports have in supporting learners in school. It is important to be in touch with the other influences that help students learn and help them form their worldview. This standard is tied to standard two where teachers are supposed to maintain credibility of the teaching profession. This standard is also tied to standard three where teachers utilise and apply knowledge of student growth and development. In standard four these come together and are extended into the community outside the classroom. It is important to approach the people that support your student with respect and incorporate them into the learning of a student as they might have more influence and background information that allows them to reach the student or understand them in a different way. When I was in practicum I was lucky to be part of parent teacher night. This was a great opportunity to see the insight of parents into students and learn or come up with collaborative strategies to help students succeed. It is not hard to find value in communicating with parents and families of students but it is important to be respectful in communicating with parents and families. In order to show that you value input from the communities around students it is important to communicate with them in a timely manner so that they can stay informed on student progress and are aware of the goals that are being set for the students. This helps communities have access and knowledge about what students are working towards and if the student might require extra support or different strategies to help them succeed. It is important to always let communities know that you as the teacher are working to help the student succeed and use this as a uniting idea instead potential falling into disagreements it is important to view the inclusion of community as an opportunity for collaboration to help students succeed.

My station for Parent Teacher night.