“Second Cup of Coffee” chats promote parent engagement at Andersen Elementary
GUAM – At Andersen Elementary School, a dedicated group of parents involved in the monthly “Second Cup of Coffee” chat took an innovative approach to enhance their understanding of their children's education. This month, they came together to conduct instructional rounds, a practice typically reserved for educators. The parents visited various classrooms to observe and look for evidence of students taking responsibility for their learning, as well as the processes and procedures in place to support effective learning environments.
Instructional rounds are a structured form of observation that allows educators to collaborate and learn from each other. This practice involves a group of teachers visiting classrooms to observe teaching and learning in action, focusing on specific areas of interest. The purpose is not to evaluate individual teachers but to gather insights into effective practices and identify areas for improvement across the school. At Andersen Elementary School, teachers engage in instructional rounds monthly, creating a culture of continuous learning and collaboration. The rounds typically follow a set process. Teachers identify key focus areas based on school-wide goals or specific student needs. They then visit classrooms to observe these focus areas in practice, paying attention to student engagement, instructional strategies, and classroom management techniques. After the observations, teachers come together to discuss their findings, share insights, and brainstorm ways to implement new strategies in their own classrooms.
Instructional rounds are recognized as one of the “Pacific Powerful Practices” in the Pacific Region, emphasizing the importance of collaborative learning among educators. This approach aligns with the broader educational goal of enhancing student outcomes through shared knowledge and practices. By empowering teachers to learn from one another, instructional rounds foster a sense of community and collective responsibility for student success.
The participation of parents in the instructional rounds at Andersen Elementary School marks a significant step in building a strong partnership between home and school. By observing classrooms firsthand, parents gain valuable insights into the learning processes and instructional strategies that support their children’s education. This involvement not only enhances parents' understanding but also strengthens the connection between school and home, fostering a supportive environment for students.
During the rounds, parents observed various classroom activities, paying particular attention to how students engaged with the learning material and took responsibility for their own educational journeys. They looked for signs of student autonomy, such as students setting personal goals, collaborating with peers, and actively participating in discussions. Additionally, parents examined the procedures in place to facilitate effective learning, including the use of instructional tools, classroom management techniques, and the overall classroom environment.
After the classroom visits, parents gathered to share their observations and discuss ways to support the school’s efforts in promoting student accountability and engagement. This collaborative debriefing allowed parents to voice their insights and suggestions, reinforcing their role as partners in the educational process.
The initiative taken by the parents at Andersen Elementary School to participate in instructional rounds exemplifies a commitment to fostering a strong school community. By engaging in this powerful practice, parents not only enhance their understanding of instructional strategies but also contribute to a culture of continuous improvement within the school. As educators and families work together, the ultimate goal remains clear: to empower students to take responsibility for their learning and achieve their fullest potential.
