A first impression is made within the first seven seconds of meeting someone. Teachers have it worse. Reputations proceed them and others’ impressions are often discussed. Parents may think they know their child’s teacher even before the first day. How do we counterbalance the myths of us?

I write.

In creating my “First Day of School Letter” I sought something above staleness and overly chipper. Beyond a mere introduction, I wanted parents understanding my teaching philosophy. To begin I asked myself:

Why am I here? Why do I teach? What drives me to do what I do?

Going through the process brought inner tension as I didn’t know what to exclude –everything seemed important. How could parents resist loving me if they only knew___?! Eventually I decided upon two overarching themes–curiosity and inquiry education. By modeling my own vulnerability and faith in the school, I sought to subliminally encourage them to do the same. Result? Parents were open and receptive in us being a team throughout the year. One family, who had little faith in the school, cited the letter as a reason for thinking this year might be different.

Revisiting the letter a year later, I have made little tweaks and added gentle reminders. While the school year has yet to begin, I can only hope the seven seconds it takes families to read the letter will lead to a positive start.