Tip #4 Parent-Teacher Conferences
November 5, 2008 adradavy
Elementary school parent-teacher conferences are coming up. As a parent you may be dreading this process, or you may look forward to it as a time to talk with your child’s teacher. Either way you should be prepared for the conference. Most schools send out the report card prior to the conference, but if your school does not, you should request a copy of the report card before your scheduled conference. That way you can preview it and not be surprised during the 20 minutes usually allotted to each parent.
After viewing your child’s report card, you should write down a list of questions or topics you would like to discuss with the teacher. Ask your child if they have anything they would like you to talk with their teacher about and write those things down too. If it seems like you have more than 20 minutes of material, call or email the teacher and ask if you can have extra time. If that is not an option, schedule a second time to meet to discuss your questions.
When entering the conference, have a positive attitude. Every teacher I have met wants their students to succeed, and wants to help parents with any questions or issues they may have. Be sure to bring your list of questions! Refer to it so you get all your questions answered.
What if you still have questions or issues after the conference? Schedule another time to meet with the teacher! Remember your child’s teacher works for you! If you are not satisfied with the outcome of the conference, you have every right to request another meeting, and if you feel it’s necessary, invite the principal as well.
You can refer to my website if you find your child needs support in reading, writing, or math. www.parent-professor.com. There you will find a useful program to tutor your child at home.
Entry Filed under: Tips for parents and tagged: conferences, parent-teacher conferences, parents, report cards, students, teachers
