Communicating with Staff

Parent communication is very important to the staff at DPE. We appreciate the ease and accessibility that email provides. We welcome messages that share concerns, highlight student needs, or bring attention to school-related issues. We also truly value hearing good news and celebrating positive moments together. With this in mind, we offer a few reminders when emailing staff:

Please allow time for a response.

Staff are focused on teaching and student supervision during the school day. They will reply as soon as they are able, typically within 48 hours on school days, or on the next school day following a weekend or holiday. Please note that part‑time staff and non‑enrolling staff will respond on their scheduled days of work.

Urgent matters should not be sent by email.

If there is an immediate safety concern, change in end‑of‑day plans, or time‑sensitive issue, please call the school office. This ensures the message is received promptly.

Use respectful and solution‑focused language.

Email is a helpful tool, but tone can be easily misunderstood. Approaching concerns with curiosity and care helps us work together effectively.

Avoid sending confidential or sensitive information electronically.

For topics requiring privacy or depth, such as complex behavioural or learning concerns, staff may request a phone call or meeting instead. 

Consider the length and purpose of the email.

Short updates or questions are best. If the conversation becomes lengthy or requires back‑and‑forth, a meeting or call is often more productive and preferred.

CC only those who need the information.

This helps reduce email volume and ensures communication stays clear and purposeful.

Celebrate the good, too!

We genuinely appreciate hearing about positive experiences, student successes, and moments you’d like to share.