At Windber Area School District, we believe that student success is a team effort. Families and schools share the responsibility of guiding students academically, socially, and emotionally. By working together, we can create a strong support system that empowers students to thrive both inside and outside the classroom.
To help support parents and guardians in this journey, we’ve outlined a few best practices that can make a big difference in your child’s learning experience.
Best Practices for Families
1. Review PowerSchool Regularly
Stay up to date on your child’s progress by checking:
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Attendance
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Current grades
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Missing assignments
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Upcoming projects or due dates
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Report cards
This simple habit helps you stay connected to what’s happening in school and gives you the chance to step in with support when needed.
2. Create a Portfolio of Your Child’s Best Work
Celebrate your child’s growth by keeping a collection of:
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Artwork
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Completed assignments
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Projects they are especially proud of
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Report cards and progress reports
This not only boosts confidence but also helps your child see their own progress over time.
3. Ask Your Child Questions About Their Day
Show interest in your child’s learning by asking questions such as:
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What teacher interaction was most helpful today? Why?
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What information did you retain today?
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What was the most exciting part of your day?
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What was the most challenging part of your day? Why?
Open-ended questions help children reflect on their experiences and encourage deeper conversations.
4. Create a Calendar for Special Events
Stay organized by keeping track of:
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Field trips and events
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Parent-teacher conferences
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Parent Advisory Council meetings
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PTO events and activities
Being present at these moments builds connections and shows your child that school is a priority.
Best Practices in Schools
Families can also strengthen their partnership with schools through active involvement.
1. Volunteer in the School
When possible, get involved by helping with:
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Classroom activities
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Field trips and events
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Lunchroom support
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Office tasks
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Tutoring
Your presence demonstrates commitment and creates meaningful connections with staff and students.
2. Ask Restorative Questions
When challenges arise, guide your child with questions like:
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What happened?
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Who has been affected by what you have done?
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What do you need to do to make things right?
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What impact did this incident have on you and others?
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What needs to happen to make things right?
This approach promotes responsibility, reflection, and problem-solving.
3. Communicate Regularly
Stay engaged by keeping open lines of communication through:
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Face-to-face meetings
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Email
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Phone calls
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Written notes or correspondence
Consistent communication builds trust and ensures concerns are addressed early.
4. Give Input at Meetings
Take part in decision-making by attending:
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Parent-teacher conferences
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Parent Advisory Council meetings
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School community events
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PTO meetings and events
Your voice matters, and your feedback helps shape a stronger school community.
Stay Engaged, Stay Informed
Together, families and schools can create the conditions where every child feels supported and encouraged to reach their full potential. Your involvement makes a difference. Whether it’s checking grades, attending a school event, or simply asking your child thoughtful questions, these small steps go a long way toward building a culture of engagement and success.
At Windber, we’re proud to partner with families every step of the way.
