Parent Corner
Helpful tips for Parent Teacher Conferences
Dear Parents and Guardians,
I am sure that most of you will be involved with Parent/Teacher Conferences in
the next few weeks. As a principal and a parent, I have been on both sides of
the conference table many times. Here are a few ideas that may make your
conference go smoothly and be of real value to you and your child:
BEFORE THE CONFERENCE
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Discuss the upcoming conference with your spouse and your child. Make a list of questions that you, your spouse and your child would like to have discussed.
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Plan to discuss your child’s progress in school and specific areas of concern. A problem at home may affect school progress. Open communication is the key.
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Study habits, homework, levels of success, attendance, the higher New York State standards, and what can be done at home to support learning may be discussed.
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Be sure to ask where your child stands. Is he/she above, at or below grade level in reading and mathematics? Ask about the Academic Intervention Program [AIS].
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Be sure to ask where improvements should be made and "What can I do at home to help assure my child’s success in school?"
DURING THE CONFERENCE
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Arrive a few minutes early to allow time for parking, signing in and securing a visitor’s pass, and walking to the teacher’s classroom.
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Relax and remember that we are all in this together for the benefit of your child.
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Remember your list of questions.
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Make notes of the teacher’s comments for future reference.
AFTER THE CONFERENCE
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Discuss the conference with your child, the other parent, and others who have a role in your child’s education [grand parent, child-care provider, etc.]
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Implement any changes that you and your child’s teacher have agreed on.
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Know that your conference participation shows your child and her/his teacher that you truly care about your child and his/her education.