Teaching staff and non-teaching staff are all essential to overall student success in schools. The expression that it takes a village to raise a child holds very true within schools. Teamwork is a vital component for student achievement, and internal communication is the master key. Here are a few ways to help improve transmission of information between teaching staff and support staff within a school.

Make communication the number one priority. Every staff member plays a role in each student’s day. All staff should be included in meetings, presentations, workshops, and trainings regardless of position or pay scale. Providing opportunities for growth and team building will be in the best interest for all staff and students. Creating an internal platform either online or a bulletin board where all information can be located by every staff member will support keeping communication clear. If possible, speak to administration to suggest that a staff member can oversee internal communication within the school. This person can ensure the proper tools are in place to provide the best transition of information in between educators.

If possible, try to schedule a time during the day where messages, IEP’s and important information can be sent to the right people. This can be accomplished either through mini stand-up meetings or though sending emails to the school secretary, daycare staff or school specialists. Take the time to photocopy pertinent documents that need to be shared with support staff. By taking the time during the day to communicate changes, concerns, or positive observations onto the next educator, it will build a stronger team connection and that will enforce a better outcome for the students.

Have the right tools to get the job done. If you need to communicate with the school secretary, principal, custodian, or daycare staff, use an internal communication system. For example, if you see in a student’s agenda that their schedule has changed for the day (ex they will be picked up at school instead of going to daycare), try using a pre-printed slip where the appropriate modifications for that student can be checked off and this slip can be sent to the daycare’s mailbox. As another example, where janitorial services are required for a classroom repair, a slip can be filled and sent to the custodian’s mailbox. Or try to create an online platform where teachers and support staff can share, message, and provide information. Use paper copies of those slips for substitutes or replacements. Create a bulletin board where staff can post important schedule changes, activities or reserving a space like the gym or library.

Effective communication is beneficial for teachers, support staff and students. Working in an environment where staff is heard, respected and valued is the steppingstone for professional development and professional accomplishments.