Title I
Hiwassee Dam Elementary School
Parent & Family Engagement Policy
Hiwassee Dam Elementary recognizes the critical role of parents in the education of their children. Our parents are encouraged to learn about the goals and objectives of our school, in addition to their child’s progress. We also encourage parents to participate in activities that involve them, such as parent conferences, in order to encourage effective communication.
A copy of this policy is included in the student planner. Each student is given a copy of the handbook at the beginning of each school year to take home.
Involving Parents
Aside from our Open House Title I meeting, we will have opportunities for parents/guardians to participate in various parent involvement events. Event dates are distributed through flyers, SchoolMessenger notifications, and are posted on our school website.
We are always willing to meet with any parent/guardian who expresses an interest, concern, or suggestion. HDEMS feels that parents and teachers are partners in the education of all students. HDEMS wants parents to feel welcome and involved throughout the school year.
Timely Information
The most significant way to enhance the quality of school life beyond a strong academic program is through communication. To keep parents informed of their child’s progress, teachers use Interactive Apps such as Class Dojo, send information and student work home in each student’s planner and all parents/guardians have access to PowerSchool.
A newsletter is distributed to parents on a weekly basis which includes information parents need about policies, events at school and general school information.
Regular Meetings
Parents are encouraged to play an active role in their child’s academic progress. Each teacher or administrator schedules parent/student conferences whenever deemed necessary or when requested by parents. These conferences are scheduled before, during or after school hours.
Parents are invited to attend and give input when a child is referred for specialized services. Also, parents are involved in developing their child's Individual Education Plan (IEP), 504 Accommodation Plan and Personalized Education Plan (PEP).
Parent Pledges
Pledges involving parents, students, and teachers will be signed at the beginning of the school year and as new students enroll in order to obtain commitment from all parties involved. Pledges will be signed during Meet Your Teacher Day, held in August.
Parent Assistance
A Parent Resource Room has been established at HDEMS and is located in the front lobby of our school. This will be available for all parents to use to gain resource materials that can assist them and provide extra opportunities for children to learn and achieve at home and at school. Parents may also use the school’s internet access to seek and/or complete applications for employment, financial assistance, or educational needs.
Materials and Training
Parents of upcoming Kindergarten students will be invited to an informational Kindergarten Orientation, offered during the Kindergarten registration period. This session includes strategies and ideas that parents can use to assist their children prior to Kindergarten to ensure a successful start. Students are introduced to the classroom and school environment.
Education of School Personnel
HDEMS has a tradition of collaboration and teamwork with all staff and parents to assume responsibility for student achievement. A high level of trust and support exists along with high expectations and a desire for excellence. Parents, teachers, administrators and student support services work closely together to achieve goals. With the combination of increased time for instruction, consistency with instructional practices, focused interventions and professional development, we will produce significant gains and achievement and provide continued success on our journey to excellence.
Coordinating and Integrating
Hiwassee Dam Elementary School will continue to collaborate and coordinate with community agencies and organizations, as needed, to provide the maximum educational opportunities available, including the Department of Social Services, Manna, Project Discovery, and Big Brothers Big Sisters.
Parent Communication and Conferences
Parents will be notified of scheduled activities through flyers, newsletters, invitations, HDEMS webpage, social media (Facebook) and SchoolMessenger.
Every effort will be made to communicate with parents in a format and language that is free of educational jargon and easily understandable by all. Parents and community members are always welcome at Hiwassee Dam Elementary School