Back to School Night – Thursday, September 19
We look forward to seeing you at Back to School Night (formerly Parents Night) on Thursday, September 19. This event is a chance for you to not only meet your student’s teachers, but also to connect with community partners who can provide great value to you and your student(s).
Have other questions? Here are answers to some common questions about Back to School Night.
What time does it start?
While the event runs from 6 to 7:30 pm, there is no official start time. Because you won’t be following your student’s schedule, you can come at any time during that window and visit any area in any order – all at your convenience.
Where do I go?
If you know your student’s schedule and classroom locations, you can visit those without coming to the Atrium. If you need a schedule, the Atrium is the place to start so you can access that information. And, while you’re there, visit with our community partners, who will be located in Alumni Gym. Members of our diversity team will be able to assist with any language questions or barriers upon arrival, too.
Do you have mobility issues?
If mobility is a challenge, we will have staff available who can help provide elevator access as needed. Please connect with our team in the Atrium on arrival, and they will be able to assist.
Is there a formal program at all?
No. There is no formal schedule to follow. You have the flexibility to visit any teachers (or community partners) in any building at any time.
Who else can I see and meet?
First of all, you can meet your student’s teachers – from both first and second semester. In addition to teachers, we’ll have a host of other resources here for you to connect with – including on-campus and community partners. We want you to be well aware of the resources available to your student – and you.
Community partners with us will include Norwich Human Services, United Way, TVCCA and more. Campus partners with us include student support teams (school counselors, social workers and psychologists); College and Career Center, Medical Center, Chartwells (our food service partner) and more.
We’ll also have staff on hand who can help you with technology issues like logging into PowerSchool.
Will the Cat Shack be open?
Yes! Our student-run store will be open and you can purchase great NFA spirit gear.
Do I need a map?
Student volunteers will be on campus to direct you and help you find where you need to go! If you'd like a map, you can find one here.
Who can come?
The evening is designed specifically for parents and guardians.
Are the teachers making a formal presentation?
Our teachers will be located in their classrooms ready to meet you briefly. This is designed to be an informal opportunity for a first connection, putting a face to a name. This is not meant to be a parent-teacher conference. Those are scheduled for November 21.
What do I talk about with the teachers?
Introduce yourself, let them know who your child is and learn a bit about who they are. Some teachers will have information available, but this is really about making that initial contact.
But what if my child is having an issue in class?
If there is a more serious topic for discussion with your child’s teacher, it’s always best to set up a conference with the teacher or perhaps the school counselor. While formal conferences are held in November, it’s always good to communicate with the teachers and staff when issues arise. Oftentimes, they can be resolved through good communication or an additional meeting, and that’s the goal of this evening – to establish those lines of communication.
What if I can’t make it to Back to School Night?
Formal conferences will be held November 21, but we always encourage good communication with teachers and our staff. The two best places to always start are with the classroom teacher or your student’s school counselor.