How to Create Newsletters From Principals
A newsletter is an effective way for a school principal to communicate with the school community. Before planning your newsletter, think about your target audience. As a principal, you can expect the newsletter to be read by parents, teachers and other staff members, students, and support staff like school bus drivers and cafeteria workers. Think of issues that will affect your readership, plan an attractive layout, and send out your newsletter.
Instructions
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Make a list of topics that you'd like to include in your newsletter, then figure out which format to use to present the information. For example, if you'd like to highlight what's going on in the classroom, you might have a column dedicated to a particular grade or subject written by you, a teacher or a student. Introduce new staff members by highlighting them in a newsletter interview. Use catchy headlines and brief copy or text.
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Include districtwide news that will affect your school community. If the school board recently voted to provide funding for a new playground, include that information. You may also want to ask for input or assistance with ideas for upcoming events like school trips or fundraisers.
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Highlight school, student or faculty achievements. A newsletter is a great place to brag about accomplishments that make the school look good. Let the community know when students or teachers win awards, and keep them up-to-date with how the school is performing as a whole academically.
Incorporate photos as you can, since it's true that a picture is worth a thousand words. And, remember that everyone loves seeing their name in print, so try to include as many students and teachers as you can.
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Include a school calendar, lunch menus, holidays, school events, early closings, and any other information your readers will find helpful. Cartoons or jokes relating to education can also add to the newsletter, along with informational websites for teachers. Ask for suggestions from parents, teachers and students. They might want to see an Inquiring photographer feature, or a column about new advances in technology that can benefit students. The key is to give readers a good reason to pick up the newsletter and save it for future reference.
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Create an attractive newsletter by including interesting font styles and graphics. Use color and varying formats to add interest and invite readership. Your publication doesn't have to be fancy, be it should look attractive and professional.
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Tips & Warnings
You can put a link to an electronic version of your newsletter on the school's website.
Use a conversational tone that's engaging and informational.
Many newsletters are printed on 11 x 17 inch paper, folded, to produce a newsletter with four 8.5 x 11 inch pages. For this format, you will probably use three columns for your articles.
Keep newsletter articles brief, concise and to the point.
Once you decide on the font, colors and layout, continue to use them for consistency.
Consistency is also important with respect to when you publish. Decide before you begin how often you realistically will get the newsletter out. If you think monthly will be a stretch, start with quarterly distribution. It will make you look unorganized if you promise a monthly newsletter but don't get one out every month.
References
- Photo Credit computer image by fotografiche.eu from Fotolia.com
