• Build and maintain a strong family-school organization like the PTA.
• Be accessible to family members.
• Establish a school newsletter with information about things going on in the school and recognition of students, teachers, and others accomplishments.
• Involve families in the orientation process. Invite them to a picnic, for example, to get aquatinted before the school year starts.
• Mail special informational materials home like pamphlets on good studying habits, reading skills, nutrition, etc.
• Use personal notes home and telephone calls to keep up with families. For example, send a post card once in a while to let them know what you are doing in class.
• Have special events during the year like weekend activities, breakfasts, carnivals,etc.
• Conduct surveys to determine family members individual skills and occupations.
• Publish a calendar of events to keep families updated on school happenings throughout the year.

Myers, John and Luetta Monson. Involving Families in Middle Level Education. National Middle School Association, Columbus, OH. 1993.