The Secret to Having a Great Parent-Teacher Conference
By Kathleen A. Matchunis
Having been both a teacher and a parent, I have a special perspective on parent-teacher conferences. First and foremost, if you have a concern or multiple concerns, write them down. A parent-teacher conference should be approached with the intention of finding out the best solutions for your child’s academic progress. In most schools, there will be the teacher, an administrator, and perhaps a guidance counselor present for the conference. Your child will also be present at the conference in most cases. Your child will observe how you set the tone and treat the teacher and the administrator or guidance counselor. So, set a good example by using appropriate language and using your best conflict resolution skills.
• Enter the conference with a collaborative approach. . Make sure that you communicate that you want to work with the teacher to make sure that your child is doing his best work.
• Everything which you have heard about the teacher and what goes on in the classroom is from your child’s point of view. During a parent-teacher conference, you will be able to find out the teacher’s point of view. Try to listen without judgment.
• No matter what is said, keep your composure. No one wants to work with parent who is confrontational and argumentative. Ask questions to find out the true source of any conflict.
• Don’t make excuses for your child. Making excuses does not teach children responsibility.
• Ask the teacher and/or administrator for suggestions, so that you leave the conference with the tools you need to empower your child to do his best.
• The teacher, administrator, and guidance counselor can provide you with many learning resources such as after school help sessions, tutors, websites, booklets, etc.
• Follow up with the teacher via email or phone to see what is working and what is not working, regarding your child’s progress.
• If you feel uncomfortable or unprepared about attending a parent-teacher conference, hire an educational parent advocate to attend the conference with you. A parent advocate is a professional with experience in the educational system and terminology, who can guide you through the process and ask questions which may not occur to you during the conference.
That evening, make sure that you have a conversation with your child, regarding the conference. Write down a plan of action with your child, based on the suggestions given to you be the teacher, administrator, or guidance counselor. Include a timeline to make your child accountable.
If you feel that your child’s needs are not being met, schedule a meeting with an administrator. If you still are not satisfied, contact the district office.
Original content by Kathleen A. Matchunis, B.A., M.S., Educational Consultant, Academic Coach & Tutor Tel.954 294 9708 www.connectinginc.net
