Written by Jane Scupham, principal
With the first quarter firmly under our belts, it’s time for report cards and parent-teacher conferences. I’ve had the privilege to have been, at one time or other, on the parent side of the conference table, and on the teacher side. I’m not sure which place I prefer, but each certainly has its unique perspective. What follows are some things I’ve gleaned over the years as parent/ teacher that can contribute to a more profitable conference with your child’s teacher.
First, be on time to the conference. Your child’s teacher is on a tight schedule and wants to give every parent an equal amount of time for their conference. It also shows your child that you value them and their education when you make a point of arriving on time for your conference. Secondly, have a conversation with your child before your conference. Your child may have concerns about schoolwork or relationships with classmates that need to be expressed to their teacher. Thirdly, think about what you would like to ask the teacher before you arrive to the conference. It is easy to be sidetracked during the conference if you don’t have some preplanned questions to ask about your child. You have the undivided attention of the teacher for 15 minutes—use it wisely. In addition, ask questions about your child’s performance in the classroom. Answers to questions--such as, how your child is meeting expectations for learning and behavior, how your child follows classroom/school rules, whether your child is experiencing any struggles in academic areas or with socialization--will all provide valuable insight into your child’s overall school experience. In addition, tell the teacher about your child’s interests, hobbies, hopes, and fears.
The more information you can provide, the better equipped your child’s teacher will be to engage your child. Most importantly, ask your child’s teacher what you can do at home to support the learning that is taking place in the classroom. Remember that you and the teacher are working towards a common goal-your child’s educational progress.
Best wishes for a productive parent- teacher conference!