Progressing academically

Teaching Pre K-8, Jan 1999 by Kines, Barbara

January usually inspires parents to check on their children's academic progress. Here are some guidelines to get the maximum benefit from your Parent/Teacher Conference.

Prepare a list of topics. Well in advance of your appointment, prepare a list of topics you expect to talk to the teacher about. Collect papers, report cards or notes that document your questions.

Three-way conversations. More and more schools are encouraging conferences among the child, teacher and parent. Ask if your child can be included. If it's decided that he/she won't attend, see if there are topics that your child wants discussed.

Be on time. Teachers schedule conferences at regular intervals and if one person is late, it keeps everyone waiting.

Come right to the point If there is a grade you are questioning, express your concern and expect to listen as well as to talk. Remember that the story you've heard is only one side of a situation.

Ask about class participation. In addition to finding out whether or not your child's academic pro-gress and behavior are satisfactory, inquire about class work habits, the frequency of homework assignments and how much you should help with them.

Request clarification. There may be terms you're not sure of, and it's very important that you understand how professional jargon applies to your particular child.

Ask to see work samples. They may help you better understand the teacher's descriptions.

Talk about your child outside of school. Make the teacher aware of his/her activities outside the school or any changes at home.

Stay within the time limit. If there are still areas to be discussed when time runs out, schedule another visit or continue the conference on the telephone.

Write a note of appreciation to the teacher. It's a great springboard for the next time you talk together.

Barbara Kines is a former teacher of kindergarten-primary grades. She is a Teaching Editor of Teaching K-8 and lives in Lutherville, MD.