The school’s very first Badgers Connect with Families Night was introduced this past Tuesday from 6:00 to 7:30. The event featured a variety of stands and presented information for both parents and students. Staff members and students helped to set up the stands, greet parents, and answer any questions that the parents might have.

“We have a leadership team that meets to discuss different topics,” instructional specialist Julie Salvato said. “We wanted an event to inform and help parents with programs such as Canvas.”

The leadership team is a group of administrators including teachers, principals and other staff members who meet to discuss issues and possible changes in the school, such as the formation of the Badgers Connect with Families Night.

The Badgers Connect with Families Night was inspired by EdCamps, which are academic presentations and focus groups that help parents and teachers with school subjects and academic programs. The leadership team wanted to promote more productive and effective communication between administrators and parents.

“We shared ideas in the group and talked about different possibilities,” Principal Robert White said. “We wanted to create an opportunity for parents to learn about the school and the programs we have. I think it’s important to realize we’re on the same team and that we’re all in this together. It’s also very important that we eliminate confusion and help parents better understand the curriculum.”

A variety of stands were open to the parents, including stands for UIL, FFA, UIL Film, and a Badger Tracks newspaper stand. Teachers from different subjects also were present and assisted parents with questions regarding grading, behavior and other classroom issues.

“It was good,” parent Clifton Mcelwain said. “They had great information. I felt all my questions were answered. I would definitely want to come again.”

Presentations for the parents included a step-by-step navigation of Canvas, websites to help with student-parent relationships and how parents can keep up with their student’s grades. Truancy officers also spoke and informed parents on attendance issues in the school and how to help prevent problems at home.

LHS will host 3 more nights like this one and hopes to raise the number of people who attend. The next Badger Connect with Families Night is October 22.