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Adding Wisdom to Knowledge.
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Preparing for the Parent-Teacher ConferenceHow do you normally respond when your child’s teacher requests a parent-teacher conference? Do you view it as a step in the right direction in resolving whatever problems exist? Or do you think that something terrible has happened and your child is in serious trouble? For some parents the parent- teacher conference has a negative connotation, possibly because of past unpleasant conferences, poor communication with teachers, or fear of the unknown. Parent-teacher conferences provide you a wonderful opportunity to participate and share information with teachers that will help your child enhance his classroom performance or behavior. Interestingly, research shows that parental involvement increases student academic achievement. Although anxiety often accompanies a parent-teacher conference, advanced planning on your part can minimize this apprehension. The following suggestions will assist you in making your next parent-teacher conference a positive experience. Before the Conference 1. Determine the purpose. This will allow you ample time to gather data and make preparations regarding the teacher’s concerns. If you initiate the conference, be sure to explain why you are requesting a meeting. 2. Schedule a conference when a problem first emerges. If a situation warrants a conference with your child’s teacher, don’t wait for the teacher to ask for a meeting. When you request a conference, you are demonstrating confidence in the teacher. 3. Know the proper protocol. You will need to find out who schedules conferences and the best time to meet, as well as where the meeting will occur. 4. Prepare talking points and questions. Jot down some talking points. This will help keep you calm and on track. Your questions may include the following: “What happened, and how can I help?” “How is my child performing academically in your class?” “How is his behavior at school?” “Does my child have a good relationship with his peers?” During the Conference 1. Establish rapport with the teacher. Refrain from beginning the conference with negative comments. Instead, say something positive. For example, thank the teacher for taking time after school hours to help your child with his schoolwork or for writing an encouraging note on a recent test. 2. Demonstrate a positive attitude. Express your concerns in the right spirit and allow the teacher to respond without interruptions. Although you may become frustrated with the situation, focus on cooperating with the teacher in helping your child overcome his problem. Remember: the teacher is your ally. He may be as frustrated as you are, so work together and stay encouraged. 3. Participate in the problem-solving process. Both you and the teacher need to exchange information, ideas, and potential solutions. Work with the teacher in developing a plan to help your child. Be sure you clearly understand each other’s responsibilities in implementing the plan, that is, who is to do what. 4. Discuss ways to stay in touch. Monitoring your child’s progress will help you determine the effectiveness of the plan. Phone calls, c-mails, letters, and follow-up conferences are just some of the strategies that will enable you to stay up to date with your child’s progress. After the Conference 1. Engage in reflective thinking. Upon the conclusion of the conference, take time to reflect on the meeting. You may want to document what was discussed. This will help you remember the conference details. 2. Discuss the conference with your child. Identify the positive comments, but be direct and honest as you address the problem. Also, discuss the decisions that were made by you and the teacher, for example, attending help class, receiving tutorial assistance, or sitting at the front of the class. 3. Implement and monitor the plan. Once the plan is implemented, continue to evaluate its effectiveness. Success indicators include, but are not limited to, higher test grades, better classroom behavior, renewed enthusiasm for learning, improved peer relationships, and spiritual growth. Conclusion Effective parent-teacher conferences are planned; they don’t just happen. As a parent, you expect your child’s teacher to plan the meeting, to exercise wisdom, and to offer good advice. Similarly, you should understand your role before, during, and after the conference. When concerned adults develop a cooperative, working relationship in all phases of the conference, they exhibit the biblical advice given by Amos the prophet, “Can two walk together, except they be agreed?” (Amos 3:3). This let’s-work-together relationship demonstrates that you and the teacher consider the education of your child a matter of great importance. The ultimate benefactor of teamwork is always the child, and this is what you want. Dr. Brian Walker is the assistant education director of the American Association of Christian Schools. |
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