If you are new to writing newsletters, here are some tips that might make this process easier from the get go! It’s all about preparation!
Information to Gather for Writing Newsletters:
Writing newsletters is all about finding the information you need ahead of time, then sitting down and typing for a short time. Not sure what to include? Here are 10 tips about what information to add:
Tip 1 – Dates
Gather the important dates for the current month, and possibly the upcoming one. Things like no-school days, early release days, field trips, County/State testing, and school events should be listed.
Tip 2 – Teaching Topics
Write about the topics you will be teaching that month. No need to go into much detail, just write an overview of what your goals are for the month. If you are doing something special like a book report, or a fun science experiment put more emphasis on that.
Tip 3 – Spelling Words
List the spelling words your students will be learning that month. If you have space, it’s nice to list them so parents can give their kids some help at home.
Tip 4 – Specials Schedule
Add the specials schedule so you can add it to the newsletter. Parents need to know when their children have P.E. That way, they’ll know to send them in sneakers.
Tip 5 – Procedures
Jot down your weekly procedures like the days you give and collect homework, when you collect library books, etc. In your first newsletter you might want to tell parents a little about your discipline policies.
Tip 6 – Daily Schedule
Have your daily schedule handy, or at least when you have snack, lunch, and when you go outside.
Tip 7 – Contact Information
Get the school office number and other contact information parents might need like your email. I also like to tell parents the best way to contact me (note in agenda, email, phone call, etc.).
Tip 8 – Invest on Templates
Take some time in the beginning of the year to find newsletter templates that you can easily edit. Keep your templates handy so you are not wasting time every month looking for one! If you wish, you are welcome to look at the newsletter templates I’ve created.
Tip 9 – Type and Save
When you have all the information you need, select a template and type it all out! Use fonts that are easy to read, and keep your message short and simple. Save your newsletters every month! You might be able to use parts of your newsletter from month to month, and possibly each year!
Tip 10 – Proofread
Have someone proofread your newsletter before you make your final copies. It is an extra step that will help you look professional. Using colorful paper makes it eye catching and hard to miss!
Do you have Newsletter Writing Tips to share with other teachers? List them in the comments below!
Hi, I’m Adriana, a meticulous, passionate, creative being, with a love for teaching and learning. I write lessons that are simple and efficient, and make resources that are rigorous and engaging. Please enjoy this collection of ideas that I’ve used successfully over the years.
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