Parent Communication Protocol
Ontario Ministry of Education PPM 170: Policy/Program Memorandum 170 | Education in Ontario: policy and program direction | ontario.ca
Introduction
Effective communication between parents and schools is essential to support student achievement and well-being. This communication protocol outlines the procedures and expectations for communication between parents and CDSBEO schools, in accordance with Ontario Ministry of Education PPM 170, School Board Communication with Parents.
Purpose
The purpose of this protocol is to:
- Establish clear communication channels between parents and the school.
- Ensure timely, respectful, and effective communication.
- Promote a collaborative approach to addressing student needs and concerns.
Communication Channels
School-Parent Communication
- Regular Updates: The school will provide parents with regular updates on school activities, events, and important dates through newsletters, emails, and the school website.
- Parent-Teacher Meetings: Scheduled parent-teacher meetings will be held at least twice a year to discuss student progress and address any concerns.
- Report Cards: Formal report cards will be issued three times a year to provide parents with detailed information on their child’s academic performance and development.
Parent-School Communication
- Initial Contact: Parents should first contact the teacher if they have concerns or questions about their child’s progress or any classroom-related issues.
- Escalation: If the issue is not resolved at the teacher level, parents may contact the school principal or vice-principal.
- Formal Complaints: For unresolved issues, parents can follow the formal complaint process outlined in CDSBEO Policy A6 Communications Guidelines.
Expectations and Responsibilities
School Responsibilities
- Provide timely and accurate information to parents regarding their child’s progress and school activities.
- Respond to parent inquiries and concerns promptly and respectfully.
- Facilitate opportunities for parents to be involved in their child’s education.
Timelines and Report Back: Schools must ensure the acknowledgement of a parent inquiry within two business days. Boards shall make best efforts to provide an estimated date of response if a parent inquiry cannot be fully addressed within five business days of receipt.
Parent Responsibilities
- Stay informed about school activities and their child’s progress by regularly checking communications from the school.
- Communicate respectfully and constructively with school staff.
- Participate in scheduled meetings and events to support their child’s education.
Confidentiality and Privacy
All communications between parents and the school will adhere to the principles of confidentiality and privacy as required under applicable privacy legislation including the Education Act, the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, and CDSBEO Policies and Procedures. Personal information will be handled in accordance with relevant privacy legislation. For more information, please see our Notice of Collection, Use, and Disclosure.
Conclusion
By adhering to this Parent Communication Protocol, we aim to foster a positive and collaborative relationship between parents and CDSBEO schools, ultimately supporting the academic and personal growth of our students. Both the school and parents share the responsibility to maintain open, respectful, and effective communication to ensure the best outcomes for our students.