PS 102

The Bay View School

PARENT TEACHER CONFERENCE TIPS

Be prepared – Go over your child’s exams, homework, and notebooks. Talk to your child ahead of time. Find out if there’s anything your child would like you to discuss with the teacher. Write down questions. Know what you want to cover in advance so you won’t forget anything. Bring the report card when possible.

Arrive on time – If you have a scheduled time slot, be prompt or you may disrupt the schedule and have less time with the teacher.

Be Positive - Introduce yourself, relax; you and the teacher are on the same side. Each of you wants the best for your child. Enlist the teacher as your partner in your child’s education.

Be direct - Raise the most important concerns first. If you disagree explain why. Listen carefully.

Ask questions – If something is unclear, ask the teacher to explain.

Don’t make comparisons – The conference is about your child only. Keep the conference focused on your child.

You are the expert – You know your child’s strengths and weaknesses, and know her/him better than anyone else. You have something important to communicate to the teacher. Let the teacher know of anything that may be affecting your child’s behavior – a change in routine, a divorce, the death of a close relative or pet, etc.

Use other parents to help you – If you need a translator, don’t be shy. Ask a friend or relative to help. Call the parent coordinator if you need help finding a translator.

Stick to classroom problems - Some problems require a meeting with the Principal or Guidance Counselor. The Parent Coordinator can assist you with scheduling meetings with other school staff at another time.

Develop a plan for success - Discuss ways to help your child learn and support classroom instruction at home.

Follow up – Teachers appreciate a thank you. Send a note. Remind the teacher of the things he/she said she would do.

Don’t forget - Visit Gym, Art, Music and other “cluster” teachers who will all be available during conference times. Conferring with a variety of teachers gives you a more complete view of your child at school.

If you can’t make the scheduled conference – Send a note and ask the teacher to call you to discuss your child or make an appointment to meet at another time. Be proactive about communication.

Stay in touch – Don’t let problems build up. Send a note during the year when you have a question. You want to maintain this important relationship and continue to develop ongoing communication with your child’s teacher.

Make time – Volunteer and participate in school activities, School Leadership Teams, school trips, PTA meetings and events. Your child will benefit.

Take notes – You can’t remember everything.

Congratulations – You are truly a concerned and caring parent!