Brenna Woods | Building Stronger School Communities Through Parent-Teacher Communication

Brenna Woods

When communication between schools and families is weak, students often pay the price. That’s why Brenna Woods, a seasoned assistant principal, views parent-teacher dialogue as a leadership responsibility—not just a classroom one. Strengthening these connections requires intentional planning and cultural awareness.

School leaders can begin by ensuring teachers have the time, tools, and support to connect with families. That includes providing translation services, scheduling flexibility, and communication templates. These resources make it easier for educators to reach out consistently and confidently.

Another key step is normalizing positive outreach. Too often, communication is triggered by problems. Brenna Woods encourages schools to create systems for celebrating student growth, sharing successes, and building goodwill early in the year. This foundation helps when more difficult conversations are needed later on.

Professional development also plays a role. Teachers benefit from learning strategies for de-escalation, empathy-driven dialogue, and conflict resolution—all of which improve the quality of interactions with families. Leaders should facilitate this growth as part of their long-term vision.

As Brenna Woods points out, trust is the real outcome of good communication. And when parents trust schools, students thrive. It’s not just about logistics—it’s about belonging.