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Communication

Goals

Estes Park School District believes that having a strong relationship with students, families, community, and staff members is essential to providing the best possible educational experience. 

To accomplish this, we will:

  • Engage in two-way communication to foster strong, positive, and collaborative relationships with all stakeholders to strengthen support for Estes Park School District

  • Provide focus and direction for messages so that all communications are clear, purposeful, and timely

  • Ensure the school district’s narrative is accurately communicated

  • Demonstrate transparency in school district operations

More Information

Staff Expectations for Communicating with Families

We believe family partnership is critical for student success. We know that clear, consistent, and proactive communication between school and home is essential to student success. The following expectations ensure families are informed, engaged, and empowered partners in their child’s education.

Frequency of Communication

Type of Communication                                   Minimum Expectation

  1. Progress Updates                                         - at least once per quarter (midway point)
  2. Grade Reporting                                           - end of each grading unit
  3. At-Risk Notifications                                    - as soon as academic concerns arise
  4. Celebrations of Growth/Achievement      - at least once a semester 

Note: Additional communication is encouraged as needed based on student progress, parent inquiry, or teacher judgment.

Best Practices for Communication

Be Timely & Proactive

  • Don’t wait for report cards to share concerns or celebrate progress.
  • Notify families early if a student is struggling to provide time for support.

Be Clear & Specific

  • Use common language and avoid educational jargon.
  • Focus on specific skills, assignments, or growth indicators.

Be Balanced

  • Pair concerns with strengths and supports.
  • Provide feedback on effort, attitude, and improvement, not just final outcomes.

Use Multiple Channels

  • Email, phone calls, messaging apps (like SeeSaw & KINVO), and in-person meetings.
  • Maintain documentation of communication.

Be Inclusive

  • Use translation and interpretation services when needed.
  • Consider the family's preferred language and communication method.

 Academic Topics to Communicate About

  • Academic performance (grades, missing work, assessment results)
  • Progress toward standards or learning targets
  • Progress toward Global Outcome competencies
  • Growth over time (e.g., historic reading levels, math proficiency, & growth toward norm)
  • Goal-setting and student ownership of learning
  • Supports in place (interventions, tutoring, accommodations)
  • Ways families can support at home (e.g., quiet dedicated time every day)

Developed by the District Advisory & Accountability Committee (DAAC) 2025

Family Communication Expectations Partnering for Student Success 

We believe family partnership is critical for student success. We understand that when families and educators work together, students thrive. Communication between school and home is a two-way street—and your involvement plays a powerful role in your child’s academic growth. Here’s what you can expect from us—and how you can stay engaged throughout the year.

Stay Informed About Progress

We encourage families to:

  • Check in regularly with your child about their learning.
  • Review progress reports and report cards shared throughout the year.
  • Reach out early if you notice your child is struggling or if you have questions.

Your child’s teacher will:

  • Share progress updates at least once per quarter
  • Report grades at the end of each grading unit
  • Notify you promptly if your child is at risk of falling behind
  • Celebrate academic growth and achievement at least once per semester

How to Stay Engaged

  • Talk to your child daily about what they’re learning.
  • Be proactive—don’t wait until you have a concern to connect. Reaching out early builds a strong partnership and helps us support your child before challenges arise.
  • Use tools like SeeSaw, PowerSchool, KINVO, or email to message teachers.
  • Attend parent-teacher conferences, open houses, and school events.
  • Ask questions when something isn’t clear—we’re here to help.
  • Let us know your preferred language and communication method. 

What To Ask Teachers About

  • How your child is progressing toward grade-level standards & Global Outcome competencies
  • Areas of strength and opportunities for growth
  • Ways you can support learning at home (e.g., setting up routines, practicing together)
  • What supports are in place for your child (interventions, accommodations, enrichment)
  • How your child is developing as a learner (effort, engagement, confidence)

We’re a Team

When we work together—with respect, curiosity, and shared goals—amazing things happen for students. Thank you for being partners in learning. If you need support or have concerns, reach out to your child’s teacher, principal, or school staff. We're here to support every learner, every step of the way.

Developed by the District Advisory & Accountability Committee (DAAC) 2025

Establish an effective employee communication plan to improve internal communication and employee engagement

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Build shared knowledge and form partnerships in order to strengthen relationships between Estes Park School District families and the wider community for increased community involvement

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