Surviving Open House: A Teacher's Guide to Greeting Parents

In most of the schools I have taught in, Open Houses are strictly for socializing and not for discussing problems with students. If this is the case for you, plan to enjoy meeting your student's parents, for that is your first priority. If a parent does try to discuss concerns, tell them you will be happy to make an appointment with them for a later time. In fact, many schools have "Conference" times that are for this purpose. The Open House is usually not for this purpose. Remembering what this is called should help you focus on your role. It is an "Open House" - visitors are your guests, and it is your job to make them as comfortable as possible.

I try to have a number of things in place prior to the Open House. I run copies of my Course Of Study for all classes I teach in case parents would like more information about my class. I also place copies of all textbooks and novels taught on the front desks of my room or on a display table.

An easy conversation-starter for me is my collection of over 3,000 novels that belong to me and that I allow my students to sign out from my classroom; however, some parents may not be interested in them. I allow parents to browse these novels if they wish and if there is time, and to even sign them out if they wish.

I also try to have student work displayed around the room, even for older students. Most parents like to look for their child's work. My son is now in high school and I still haven't outgrown the fun of finding my son's work along a wall of student papers or posters.

I also try to make sure my desk is as neat and orderly as possible, but not so neat that it appears as if no work gets done there. Usually our Open Houses are in the middle of a busy work week, so I do allow my classroom to remain functional.

Just as I always do, I write all of the lesson information and homework reminders on my chalk boards so that parents can see what we are currently working on.

I also keep a sampling of hot tea in my room so I make sure I have extra cups, flavors, sugar, honey, etc. and add a sign for parents to help themselves.