Get ready for parent-teacher conferences

School conferences are a wonderful opportunity for parents and teachers to learn more about their students — the key is two-way communications where both parties exchange information about the students.  

The conferences, scheduled for Nov. 12 and 14, can set the stage for a great school year.  As a parent, you know your students better than anyone else. You can share the following information with their teachers: favorite subjects, outside interests and hobbies and any medical or health needs. Other information worth sharing are things happening at home that may affect school work, moving, divorce or the birth of a child.

Before the conference

Talk with your students and have them help you prepare for the conference.  Ask your students what they would like you to talk about with the teachers  and what they think the teachers will say.  

Ask your students what they like and don’t like and their problems and successes. Also let them know after the conference you will discuss what the teachers said with them, or bring the students along to participate in the conference.  Parents, you also need to be prepared and think about the questions you would like to ask.  Here are some suggestions:

• What is being covered in this grade or subject this year?

• What are your expectations for homework, classwork and assessments?

• How are my students’ work habits? Do they use time well?

• Are my students performing at grade level?

• Do my students cooperate in class, follow directions and get along with other students?

• What can I do at home to help my students be more successful at school?

At the conference

Keep an open mind.  Remember that both you and your teachers want to help your students succeed.  

Your goal is to work for cooperation between you and the teachers.  Even if the teachers say something you disagree with, listen to what they have to say. Ask to see student’s work during the conference.  

Ask additional questions if there are things you do not understand, and ask for the best way to contact the teachers.

After the conference

Follow up. Stay in touch with the teachers. If you think of a question you didn’t ask, contact the teacher.  Talk with your students: Stress the positive things the teachers said and talk about suggestions for improvement. Plan with your students how to carry out these suggestions.

(Ruth VanWorth-Rogers is principal at Libby Middle-High School.)