In this timely episode as we come to the end of the 1st semester, we share our 5 keys to writing the perfect parent email. We share some strategies to be sure we infuse empathy, concern, compliment and even gratitude into even the most difficult to write email. (disclaimer: a phone call home will always be better)

Create Context - Important to be brief but do not forget to create context. Paint the picture so the parent understands what you are getting out. This might be the 15 minutes leading up to the meat of the email or may be the days leading up to the need to send the email. Regardless, don't just speak about the incident, positive or negative.CC Someone - A third set of eyes can help better deliver the message. Consider CC'ing the student so there are no secrets among the stakeholders. Our favorite is the counselor. This can give them the opportunity to follow-up, provide context, or congratulate the student if the email is a positive message.Sandwich Method for Feedback - Take the "Positive-Suggestion-Positive" approach. It can be difficult to find the positive when the suggestion is one addressing a concern. You can hearken back to a positive from a previous quarter. Then you would explain the changes you've seen. Luke suggests begin sure you have sent a positive email before so the negative is not the first interchange you have with the parent/guardian. Check out Episode 16: Magic Words for more about finding ways to phrase the positive.Goal-Oriented Message - This can empower the parent. Talk about what can be done or what you would like to try to improve the situation. Even if a conclusion is not met say something like, "I look forward to working with you toward the solution."Be Grateful - Parents are working hard. Over the course of our combined 19 years it has occasionally felt like we were not getting the support and follow through at home. We must acknowledge that no matter the degree of support we feel, the parent is trying. They are likely managing different behaviors, battles or hidden stories at home too. Thank them for their support. Its a great way to end the email.