PARENT ACADEMY EVENING WAS WELL RECEIVED

On Wednesday, December 7th, Green Brook Township Public Schools hosted their first Parent Academy evening at the Irene E. Feldkirchner elementary school. The event, planned by the district’s teachers, in coordination with Beth Stanton, Director of Curriculum and Instruction, aimed at providing parents with information and support about the district’s programs as well as how to support their children at home. Parents were able to attend up to four classes throughout the evening. Presentations included: “Understanding and Helping Your Child with Reading Levels” by Maria Botte & Suzanne Scannell, “What is Fundations?” by Chris Doane & Lori Alhanti, “Writer’s Workshop 101 for Parents” by Jennifer Wagner & Michele Wolkun, “THEN vs. NOW Math” by Donna Pirrone, “Developing and Practicing Age-Appropriate Social Skills” by Shaune Casazza & Ann Kessler, “Collaborating for Success: Parent & School Partnerships” by Silvia Rego & Natalie Whalen, “Helping your Child Recognize and Prevent Bullying” by Shaune Casazza & Ann Kessler, “OnCourse Connect:Using the Parent Portal” by Jason Weber.
The Parent Academy was attended by over 85 Green Brook families. In addition to classes, parents enjoyed free childcare provided by Green Brook Middle School’s Peer Leadership program. Dinner was donated courtesy of local restaurants including Carrabba’s, Capital Craft, Bonefish Grill, and Texas Roadhouse. Representatives from Green Brook’s PTO and the Green Brook Education and Athletic Foundation (GBEAF) were on hand to discuss programs with parents and information on how to get involved in the school community. Parents were also able to do some holiday shopping from vendors in the cafeteria selling products including LuLaRoe, Dreamers Do Travel, Thirty-One, Usborne, Trinity Gem, and Rodan and Fields.
Thanks to the efforts of the district’s teachers, administrators, custodians, peer leaders, and local business and restaurants the evening was a great success. A follow-up survey will be sent to families who attended to get feedback about the event and will be used to start the planning process for a spring Parent Academy.