Parent/Teacher Conference Information

Notice to Teachers: Staff members are asked not to take an extended supper break during the conference time. The official break time is between 2:00 and 2:30 p.m. There will be food available for supper from about 5:30-6:30 p.m. Please let your Building Principal know if you have any questions.
Because you have limited amount of time, your conference must be tightly scheduled. Write down all the issues you wish to discuss with a parent. Here are several points that should be addressed with parents at the conference:

USE A PARENT CONFERENCE SHEET TO HELP PLAN YOUR CONFERENCE. I HAVE A SAMPLE FOR YOUR USE. PLEASE FEEL FREE TO E-MAIL ME AND I WILL GET YOU A COPY.

-Begin by sharing an example of the unique qualities of their child
-Give an update on any past problems
-Discuss academic strengths
-If appropriate, discuss academic weaknesses
-Get parental input on the child’s academic performance
-Discuss academic goals for the remainder of the year
-Present the social strengths of the student
-If appropriate, discuss the student’s weaknesses in social interactions
-Discuss your goals in the area of social development for the remainder of the year
-Get parental input regarding their child’s social behavior

Have examples of a student’s class work available for the conference. Use the work to help illustrate statements you are making to parents regarding their child’s performance in class. Place the work in a folder.

***It’s very important that parents are comfortable during the conference. Arrange to have adult-size chairs available in your room during the conference. Don’t forget to put chairs outside your room for early arrivals. Your door should be clearly labeled with your name and room number.***

The best way to learn how to get parents on your side is from teachers who already are successful at getting parents support. These teachers share four important qualities:

**They know they must have the support of parents
Parents are the most influential, important people in a child’s life. Parental love and approval are fundamental needs of each and every child. Parents have the most time to work one on one with their child. If you can encourage a parent to spend 15 minutes a night helping a child, you are tripling the amount of individual attention the child can receive. Parents can offer disciplinary backing. Realistically, you are limited in what you can do when a student chooses to misbehave.

**In every interaction with parents, effective teachers demonstrate their concern for the child
From the beginning of the school year, communicate your concern. It is never too early to show parents you care. Establish positive communication with parents. The key to showing genuine concern is to contact the parents when the child is doing something right.

**In all situations, effective teachers treat parents the way they want to be treated
Teachers who are most successful in getting parent support adhere to the “golden rule”—treat parents the way you would want to be treated if you had a child in school. This common sense approach to positive parent involvement is one of the most valuable qualities you can develop

**In every interaction with parents, effective teachers demonstrate professionalism and confidence

Involve parents and welcome the support and involvement of parents. Demonstrate your confidence in every interaction with parents. Be professional, confident and assertive. Communicate in a way that says “I know what I’m doing”—is vital to working effectively with parents. You have to learn to project the attitude of self-assurance that earns respect and promotes confidence.