Family Engagement

For our children to thrive, we believe school and family must work hand in hand. We are committed to building strong, supportive relationships with every family, creating a community where children feel secure, valued, and connected.

How We Connect with Families

Strong partnerships with families are at the heart of Ark Valley Preschool. We keep you in the loop—often and with care.

  • Monthly Notes from Carmel (Director)
    A warm, big-picture update each month from Carmel—what we’re working on, what’s coming up, and how you can join in.

  • Shared Google Drive + Google Calendar
    One click to see all school happenings—no guesswork. PD days, community events, Little Joy Days, and special visitors are all posted and updated here.

  • Weekly Classroom Newsletters
    Each week, your child’s teachers share a snapshot of learning, photos, and helpful reminders so you always know what we’re exploring.

  • Daily Updates via Brightwheel
    Quick notes, photos, meal/rest logs, and messages in real time. Brightwheel is our day-to-day hub for two-way communication.

  • Learning Stories & Student Portfolios

    Teachers document meaningful moments of learning, discovery, and growth through learning stories—narratives that celebrate each child’s thinking, creativity, and relationships. These stories, along with artwork, observations, and reflections, are collected in student portfolios that showcase growth over time. Families are invited to engage with these stories throughout the year as a living record of their child’s journey.

  • Celebrating Growth Conferences

    Twice a year, teachers meet with families to share student portfolios, learning stories, and developmental milestones. Together, we reflect on progress, set goals, and celebrate each child’s unique growth—academically, socially, and emotionally.

    After each discussion, a written report is signed by both teacher and family and added to the child’s portfolio as documentation of shared understanding and collaboration. If a concern arises or continues, we gather as a full support team—including teachers, administrators, and caregivers—to develop a toolkit of strategies that can be used both at school and at home.

    We also collaborate with consultants, specialists, and community partners as needed to provide additional support. This may include developmental screenings, behavior or inclusion specialists, speech-language consultants, or family workshops—ensuring that every child and family receives the resources they need to thrive.

Events & Community Building

  • Annual Events: Family Arcade Night, Trick-or-Trunk, Hap-Pie Day, and our Winter Gala bring families together in joyful celebration.

  • Community Explorers & Little Joy Days: Parents are invited to share in special theme days and classroom experiences.

  • Volunteer Opportunities: Families can help in classrooms, on the playground, or during school events — strengthening the sense of community and partnership.

Collaboration & Support

  • Open Dialogue: Families are always welcome to share concerns, ideas, or questions. We listen and work together to support every child’s needs.

  • Cultural Inclusion: We invite families to share traditions, languages, and practices that enrich our classrooms.

  • Partnerships with Community Resources: AVP connects families with local supports when needed, ensuring children and parents have the tools to thrive.

Why It Matters

When families and schools partner together:

  • Children feel a deep sense of belonging.

  • Parents gain confidence and trust in their child’s learning journey.

  • The entire school community becomes stronger, more inclusive, and more joyful.

Your voice matters.
We welcome questions, ideas, and feedback anytime—because at Ark Valley, learning happens best when families and educators grow together.