Who's Who at Elementary School?
PEN encourages informed, civil, and constructive parent and caregiver engagement. Whether you're new to having a child in PUSD or just want to make sense of what's going on at the school or district level, 'Ask PEN' posts explain the basics, provide context, and offer links to more in-depth discussion of timely topics.
The beginning of school can be a bit overwhelming, especially for new PUSD parents! Here’s a quick guide to “who’s who” at your child’s school.
Teachers – In elementary school, your child’s teacher is your main point of connection. Find out how they prefer to be contacted, and make sure the school has your current contact information. Children with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) also have what’s called a “case carrier,” who is your main point of contact. Often this is your child’s teacher, but it may be a resource specialist providing services to your child.
Other Parents & Caregivers – Some of your best guides to navigating your child’s school are other parents. Whether you have time to directly participate or not, join the Parent Teacher Association (PTA). Do your best to get to know one or two “experienced” parents. Find out if your school or its PTA has a “room parent” system or an active social media presence. And, if you can’t find a parent to connect with, please reach out to a PEN Parent Ambassador.
Principal – Teachers and all other campus staff report to the site administrator, usually the Principal. This is not the first person to approach with questions or minor concerns (that’s the teacher). Try to attend a “coffee with the principal” for a chance to get to know them. If the teacher or other staff are not able to resolve something, then reach out to the principal. The principals also send school-wide communications, including weekly emails and phone calls. If you’re not receiving any communication from the school, check with the front office to see if your contact information is correct.
Front office staff – While this can include an Office Manager, a registrar, and an attendance clerk, expect just one or two people in the office on a given day. The Office Manager can help you with the Aeries parent portal, becoming a volunteer, and other issues. Attendance is a big deal, both because it is key to student success and because attendance rates are the basis of school and district funding. If your student has to miss school because of illness, a medical appointment, family emergency, or religious reasons, notify the school attendance clerk by phone. “Attendance” is always one of the choices when you call the main school phone number. If your child is going to miss more than a day, your teacher will appreciate knowing as well.
Health Clerk - Most schools have a Health Clerk who, under the supervision of a licensed nurse, handles first aid and illness, monitors student medication, and maintains confidential student health records. Some families get to know this person very well! PUSD operates a number of health programs including a Health Clinic that offers low or no-cost immunizations and student-athlete physical exams, among other things.
Family & Community Engagement – PUSD’s “FACE” staff oversee a team of Community Assistants who provide support services to staff and families at each of the schools. FACE also processes volunteer applications from the school sites, supports the district-level parent organizations, and organizes parent workshops. Follow @PUSDfaces on Instagram for updates. They also created the Welcome Kit, with a calendar, bell schedules, school menus (including how to apply for meals that meet your student’s dietary restrictions), report cards, after-school programs, and more.
Coming next week: PEN’s Back to School Etiquette for Parents - timeless tips on getting the year off to a good start.