This is Mr. Funky Teacher with BeAFunkyTeacher.com. I'm coming to you with another Be a Funky Teacher podcast. Today we're diving into open house tips for teachers—simple, practical things you can do to connect with students and parents from day one and set that tone for a great school year. But first, three things I'm thankful for. One thing I'm extremely thankful for is time with kids and family. I had an opportunity to go late one afternoon to a train museum with my youngest son. He loves trains. He's nine years old and just loves them. I also got to go with my brother, who has a disability, and my dad. The four of us walked around and explored, and I’m so thankful for that time together. The second thing I'm thankful for is good food—specifically the good food my wife makes. She is such a great cook. She makes delicious comfort food, and we recently had corn and barbecue ribs that felt like heaven on earth. I’m so appreciative of everything she makes for us. The next thing is chilly mornings. Even though it's summer as we transition into the school year, it can be hot and humid. Sometimes that sticks around into the morning. But it's such a treat when I walk outside and there's a little bit of chill in the air. It lets me know that fall is coming. It’s not winter yet—just a crisp morning, and I'm thankful for that. All right, let's talk open house. I have some quick, no-fluff ideas you can use right away—but first I want to talk about my own open house experience because something happened that has never happened before. Twenty-three years in the game, and something brand new: I danced at open house. Winnebago Public School is on a reservation, and the journey of learning about the school, the district, the community, the Winnebago tribe, and the Ho-Chunk culture has been fascinating. I absolutely love it. What Winnebago does to kick off the school year is amazing. They hold a family fun day on the football field in the morning. Then, from 1:00 to 3:00, they have a welcome-back-to-school powwow. And I got to dance at it. I recently went to a community homecoming powwow, but this one was specifically for the schools. Students danced and competed. I watched, enjoyed, and even ate some food they shared with us. But the most meaningful moment was when they invited teachers into the arena for a special honor dance. They said teachers are now part of their culture, because we’re contributing to their community and their children. Over 150 years ago, the last war chief of the Winnebago tribe gave the command: “Educate our children because they are our future.” This powwow showed that the vision is still alive today. So I joined the teacher honor dance—walking in a circle around the drum group—and it was deeply touching. But then came something unexpected: a teacher dance-off. In powwows, dancers can win money, and during the dance-off they told us, “Move your body to what feels right.” I hesitated at first because I didn’t want to do anything disrespectful, but people encouraged me, so I went for it. Another new teacher joined too, along with some veteran teachers. And y’all, I MOVED. I lifted my leg, spun, and just let loose. I made it into the final four. And let me tell you—mad respect to powwow dancers. My heart was racing. I was drenched in sweat. But the crowd was cheering, the students were cheering, and I just kept going. They handed me a ring to use in the dance as well. At one point I spun so much I almost face-planted right on the turf. The announcer even said I was “soaring like a bird.” I caught myself, thankfully, and kept going. I didn’t win—another teacher did, and she has won three years in a row—but it was all in fun. I’m so grateful I took that risk. Had I not danced, I would have missed a powerful opportunity to connect with the community, the culture, and my future students. After the powwow ended, I had to get ready for the indoor open house. Thankfully, I packed a change of clothes because I was drenched. I cleaned up and prepared for the next three hours of meeting families. My room was exactly how I wanted it: red carpet rolled out from a party supply store, taped down for families. Parents walked in and said, “There’s a red carpet!” And I proudly told them, “That’s right, I rolled out the red carpet for you.” It was for them—for families and students—to celebrate the start of the year. One thing I always recommend is skipping “Did you have a great summer?” because some kids didn’t. Instead ask, “What’s one thing you did this summer?” Everyone did something, even if it was small. Or ask what they’re excited for this year. Another important tip: give every parent one positive comment about their child before they leave. Even something simple like appreciating a student’s smile builds quick rapport. I also recommend having something interactive for students. Teachers use scavenger hunts or desk-finding activities. I use my classroom mascots—Ligament Larry the skeleton, Cocoa Puffs the kangaroo duo, Bonehead the skeleton head. Students love finding them. Always stand and move around during open house. Don’t sit behind a desk. It’s more welcoming to move with families. A quick handout can help too—something simple and meaningful, not a pile of papers. Displaying student work from past years can build excitement about what’s coming. Consider a photo spot with fun props or a red carpet. I also have a display area with photos of my family and hobbies so students can connect with me personally. Background music at low volume helps set the vibe. A wish-list board with optional contributions can work depending on the community. Small takeaways like pencils or bookmarks can also make it special. As I reflect, those are my top tips for open house: be intentional, be warm, be real. And if you get a chance to dance in front of your students, families, or community—do it. Open house is your chance to set the energy before the first bell even rings. Remember to inspire greatness in young people. And don’t forget—be a funky teacher. Bye now.