Community Building In A Virtual Setting
Relationships are the foundation of any meaningful learning. So how do we build classroom community when we’re not physically in the classroom?
Hear from mentor teachers and literacy experts as they provide practical, adaptable suggestions and downloadable resources to help make lasting connections for your students and their families.
Your Virtual Community Building Playlist
Creating connections virtually doesn’t have to be daunting. We’ve got
recommendations and support so you can start building your
classroom culture today.
Joe Freeman: Building Your Virtual Classroom Culture
“Be the best you can be.”
Tips and tricks from a resourceful and creative educator for building
shared purpose with your students.
Julia Stoll: Make it Big! Maintaining Virtual Engagement
A play therapist shares how she captivates kids in online teaching.
(See more of Julia’s virtual teaching in Pop Up Early Learning on Cox Campus. Julia’s videos are the first and last of each day of pop up.)
Salley Edwards: Staying Connected in the Virtual Classroom
“I’m so glad you’re here today!”
Learn why connections are as important as content, and how to make each child feel “seen” from the other side of the screen.
Sarah Moss: Prioritize Love and Fun
A kindergarten teacher urges us to consider what’s most important in
this time.
Justin Browning: Be Yourself
What does it mean to build a culture of kindness during virtual instruction?
Hear why it’s crucial for creating community and connection in a new way, for a positive, capable class.
Crystal Gibson: Reach Every Child
Ms. Gibson challenges us to ask, “How can I ensure that I acknowledge and appreciate every child’s contribution to the learning environment?”
Learn about the role of self-reflection in a child-centered approach.
Christa Payne: Think Outside the Classroom
A developmental behavioral neuroscientist asks us to consider all the
people that make up a classroom community.
Additional Tools & Resources
Tips Sheet
Download these useful tips for building your classroom community virtually.
Get Your Community Building Tips
K-3 Back to School Family Questionnaire in English and Spanish
Building your classroom community should always include students’ families. Lay the foundation for your partnership with this fillable PDF – get their input virtually, or print it out and take notes as you ask them the questions over the phone.
Get The Family Questionnaire (English)
Obtenga el cuestionario familiar (español)
Cox Campus Family Culture and Language surveys in English and Spanish
Share this survey with families of dual language learners (DLLs) to gather insights on how to best support the child’s home language and culture within the virtual classroom.
Language Access
In addition to English and Spanish, many families speak other languages. Every family should know they are important members of your community. Use the resources that are available to you to ensure they are included.
- Ask your school or district if they have translators available for virtual school. Advocate with other teachers and with families for access to vital translation services.
- Use apps or programs to translate your messages such as Remind or Talking Points.
- Find others in your school community who are bi- or multilingual who can help you communicate.
Cox Campus Community Board Post
Join us on the Cox Campus community board to seek advice and share ideas with literacy experts and fellow teachers.