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
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Jot down questions and concerns you have about the teaching program.
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Jot down any information about your child that might be helpful to the teacher.
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Talk to your child to find out about his or her perceived areas of strength and challenge.
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Ask your child if there are any specific questions he or she would like you to ask the teacher.
During the conference
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If you are unfamiliar with the Standards Based Report Card (SBRC) report card, ask for a short explanation of how it works.
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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.
- If your child is an English Learner, ask about his/her progression.
--What is your child's current ELPAC score?
--What ELD group is your child in? Is your child ready for reclassification?
--Ask the teacher for specific suggestions about how you can support your child's progress at home.
After the conference
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Discuss the report card marks with your child. Focus first on your child's strengths and then highlight 1-2 areas for growth.
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Discuss the plan you have formed with the teacher to support learning at home.
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The conference should not be the only conversation you have with the teacher about your child's progress.
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Stay in touch with the teacher throughout the school year.
Remember, a strong parent-teacher partnership will benefit your child.