Parent-teacher conferences are an opportunity to establish better communication between parents and teachers. Since children are different at home and in school, parent-teacher conferences help both parents and teachers understand and be more effective in helping the child. We believe that students whose families are involved with learning do better in school.
The most accurate predictor of a student’s achievement in school is not income or social status, but the extent to which that student’s family is able to:
- Create a home environment that encourages learning
- Express high (but not unrealistic) expectations for their children’s achievement and future careers
- Become involved in their children’s education at school and in the community
We encourage families to become more involved in learning and believe the following questions can improve two-way communication. Review these questions and write down any others you may have. Be sure to include any concerns that your child would like you to discuss with the teacher.
Fall Conferences
- What strengths does my child bring to his/her learning?
- Does my child consistently meet classroom criteria in relation to the Learning Skills and Work Habits?
- How does my child interact with others and contribute to classroom activities?
- This is a specific concern about my child’s work in this class ______.
- What additional resources could benefit my child?
- What goals does my child need to work on, with the support of his/her teacher and family?
- What can the teacher do to help my child be more successful in his/her learning?
- What can our family do at home to help my child be more successful in school?
Spring Conferences
- What developmental progress has my child made in his/her learning?
- In what areas does my child need to begin or continue to focus on?
- Are there any summer activities that the family can pursue to help my child prepare for next year?