On the day of orientation, keep in mind that some parents are likely to be late, while others seemingly never want to leave. Accommodate latecomers by scheduling the most important parts of the orientation for 15 minutes after its start time. While waiting for the stragglers to arrive, encourage the parents to tour the classroom on their own. Introduce yourself to the parents and answer informal questions.
Give the parents a brief introduction to how the fourth grade curriculum differs from what they were used to in the third grade. Tell the parents about any changes to homework procedures that occur in the fourth grade. Tell the parents about the areas of the curriculum that are expected to be difficult. Give the parents basic information on any projects that the child will be required to complete away from school. Express your support for each child's academic success in the fourth grade.
Discuss the different field trips that will occur during the fourth grade. Tell the parents the approximate dates and costs of each field trip. Give the parents the information that they will need to be able to volunteer in the classroom and on field trips.
Tell the parents about classroom management expectations for the year. Explain your expectations. Discuss dismissal procedures. Changes and new expectations should be candidly defined for parents.
Before the parents leave, give them a written version of the most important information provided during the orientation. Include a supply list and a list of the ways parents can help children to succeed in fourth grade. Provide the parents with the best methods of contacting each other, class leaders and yourself.