Good communication is key at back-to-school time. There’s so much information to share with parents and you want to make sure you’re striking the right balance of really being helpful and not overloading folks. Here are 10 files that you can download from our File Exchange and print for parents. We think they cover the bases of promoting parent involvement, recruiting helpers, welcoming parents, and even providing teachers with a little treat.
1. Get Involved Flyer—10 Reasons To Get Involved at School
This flyer is a great way to let parents know why getting involved helps not only the school community but their own kids, as well.
2. Back-to-School Open House Parent Group Volunteer Sign-Up Sheet
Display this at your PTO table during back-to-school night. You’ll get lots of sign-ups!
3. Back-to-School Photo Booth Signs
Here’s how to have fun: Set up a photo booth and use these signs for props.
4. School PTO Membership Cards
These cards are a cute way to help parents feel connected and part of your group!
5. Back-to-School Welcome Breakfast Flyer
Pretty invitation! This event is a nice way to help parents feel welcome and connect with each other.
6. “You Can Make a Difference” Brochure
This is a trifold color brochure that provides info on why parents should get involved. (And makes your group look super professional!) Available in English and Spanish.
7. Parent Involvement Passport
This includes event and meeting information for parents, plus a page where parents collect stamps for participation and can win a prize once the page is complete! Available in English and Spanish.
8. Back-to-School Popcorn Tags
Attach this “Thanks for Popping In” tag to microwave popcorn bags. It’s a cute giveaway for parents at a back-to-school night or your first meeting.
9. First Day of School Poem
Print and share this with parents before school starts. Nice keepsake—and trust us, there’ll be a few tears!
10. Back-to-School Apple Gift Tags
Give teachers an apple on the first day of school with a tag that reads, “An apple for the teacher is really nothing new...but these come with our appreciation, too!”
Originally posted in 2016 and updated regularly.
