School Relations

1) Timely Communication

Thoughtful and conscientious communication is essential, particularly early on and throughout your partnership. When your partner contacts you with a question or requests more information, try to respond by the next business day.
‍

2) Build and Empower Your Team

Churches, schools, and, in many cases, literacy non-profit volunteer coordinators will need to share training, communications, and collaborative practices. Well-defined roles will improve the overall experience for all parties and ensure a solid and lasting partnership.
‍

3) Clarify Your Communication Process

Make sure all parties (school, business/church, literacy organization) have the contact information for all key leaders, keep that information updated, and have a plan for ongoing communication for healthy and mutually successful relationships.
‍

4) Adopt a Listening Posture

Focus on the school’s needs by listening and meeting them to create a trusting relationship. Show interest by asking open-ended questions and following up on the values, needs, and concerns expressed.
‍

5) Keep it Relational 

Remember, all of this is about people. Look for ways to get to know your partners. Find ways to encourage and surprise them with acts of kindness. At first, some may be suspicious of an outside group entering a school, but trust is built by how we consistently relate and behave.

‍