Looking for information re: Welcome Packets. Sounds like something that would benefit our parents but unsure about starting, etc. Please give suggestions!

By welcome packet I was thinking new to school but it could be just about anything... My son is in 2nd grade and I have had to learn as I go. Was hoping we could provide information about what goes on at school for people who needed the information. I think this group could be more than just people who are new to the school as our school gives information as requested.

Any information would be appreciated. Things that have been tried and failed would be good to know too.

Thanks

[This message has been edited by Mrs.B (edited 07-09-2001).]

What kind of welcome packet? new to the school? new to PTO? new to committee?

I too would be interest in a packet for new parents to the school. Say kindergarten parents and any new students. Something about everything in the school including PTO. I have wanted to do this but did not know where to start. I am second term President.

we have given out welcome packets in the past that came from a commercial vendor and were free to us. Some parents liked all the goodies, which included cereal, disposable plastic lunch containers, and LOTS of coupons. Other parents just thought it was more garbage. I always felt like a TRUE welcome packet would have the following components, (which I hope to put together for parents this year)....1. a map of the school 2. a purse-sized card with a list of contacts (family advocate, nurse, etc.) 3. a school calendar, with off days highlighted 4. a BOOSTER officer roster, list of events, and ways they can help! 5. a school magnet, with the phone number of the school on it 6. Other goodies - maybe a "have lunch with your child on us" ticket that they could redeem

I would be happy to help work on a draft "form" that would be useful to other PTO's, too...please email me privately if you are interested in this. When we get it all together, we'll share them with the forum, OK? Thanks! Liz at keokuk@casco.net

We started a welcome committee last year at our school. We have a packet of forms to give new parents when they register their children. It includes a list of all the things PTA does, tips for new parents (such as always pay by check, info comes home in school envelope on thur, etc.), list of sports available and grades involved, form to fill out requesting more info, plus an envelope to start collecting boxtops and labels. Before school starts, we send a welcome letter to the child along with a copy from the yearbook with their new classmates' pictures so they will be able to recognize names and faces. We also call the families about 10 days before school starts to answer last minute questions. The feedback has been positive.