Parent-Teacher Conferences

Parent-teacher conferences are a terrific opportunity for you to communicate with teachers about your child's progress. Typically, a parent-teacher conference will take 30-45 minutes. During this time, the teacher will show samples of your child's work so that you will have a better understanding of your child's specific strengths and areas of need.

Before the conference

• Look over your child's report card so you will be familiar with it. Principals often review the report card at Back-to-School Night.
• Jot down questions and concerns you have about the teaching program.
• Jot down any information about your child that might be helpful to the teacher.
• Talk to your child to find out about his or her perceived areas of strength and challenge.
• Ask your child if there are any specific questions he or she would like you to ask the teacher.

During the Conference

• If you are unfamiliar with the report card, ask for a short explanation of how it works.
• Ask the teacher to share examples of your child's work.
• Ask the teacher to explain and give examples of "proficient" student work so you will know what the grade-level expectations are.
• Don't hesitate to ask for clarification if the teacher uses terms you don't understand:
• What do you mean when you say...?
• What does that term mean?
• How did you determine ...?
• Ask how the teacher plans to support your child's progress.
• Ask the teacher for specific suggestions about how you can support your child's progress at home.

After the Conference

• Discuss the report card marks with your child. Focus first on your child's strengths and then highlight 1-2 areas for growth.
• Discuss the plan you have formed with the teacher to support learning at home.
• The conference should not be the only conversation you have with the teacher about your child's progress.
• Stay in touch with the teacher throughout the school year.