Red Chair

Everyone is Invited!

The Red Chair is not just for parents. Our schools and our children need the support and involvement of the entire community.

How to Make a Red Chair Visit

  1. Report to the office, sign in and pick up a visitor packet.
  2. Turn off cell phones and pagers.
  3. If possible, wait for the beginning of the class period.
  4. Enter the classroom quietly and have a seat in the red chair.
  5. Observe the class for the entire class period if possible.
  6. Use the note sheet to jot down information to share at a later time.
  7. Fill out the observation form included in the visitor packet.
  8. Return to the office to sign out.
  9. Turn in your completed observation form.

You Should Know...

Generally when someone new visits a classroom, students will act differently. Some students will behave better, while others may do just the opposite! Don’t try to fix anything or intervene.

You may visit while there’s not much “action.” Students may be studying for a test or reading independently. Or, you might come during a very busy time. Students may be working in groups, talking, and moving around the room. It may appear hectic to you, but it is actually a controlled “chaos.” Middle school students need a variety of learning environments to stay interested and on task.

Teachers often need to monitor the hallways or escort students during passing period. Please keep in mind that the teacher may not be able to stop to visit with you. If you need to talk with the teacher, please wait until after the class period or schedule a time to meet later.

Confidentiality is a must when visiting a classroom. If you observe a student having difficulty, please remember that it is a private issue between the teacher, the student, and the parent. If you have concerns, you may speak to the teacher after class.

Support the Red Chair Program

Volunteers

It takes many hands to fill the Red Chairs! Volunteers can make Red Chair buttons, assemble packets, or call parents and community members to personally invite them to visit.

Site Council

Invite Red Chair visitors to a meeting to discuss the Red Chair program at your school. Give parents a chance to share ideas and ask questions. Red Chair visitors could be new site council members in the making!

Community

Community members can promote the Red Chair program by distributing fliers and invitations at businesses and community organizations.

Parents

Don’t wait for an invitation to sit in a Red Chair. Come any time, or call the school and let them know you are interested. Talk to friends and neighbors about the Red Chair and the need for more parent and community involvement in middle schools.