Parent-Teacher Conferences and How It Helps Students

Tuesday , October 20 , 2020

While instruction may look different for some students this school year, our teachers are actively engaged with our students who are learning either in-person or at home. K-8 Parent-Teacher Conferences will also look different this year with more options available for parents to connect with their child’s teachers, including virtual conferences, in-person conferences, or phone conferences. K-8 Parent-Teacher Conference week is October 26-29. 

Since Parent-Teacher Conferences bridge the connection between home and school, this is a valuable opportunity to support your child's academic development, while having an open conversation with your teacher. 

Before your meeting, take a few minutes to review your child's assignments and grades online through the Infinite Campus portal.

During your conference, you’ll have about a limited amount of time to meet with your child’s teacher to discuss student data, assignments, quizzes and/or tests, progress reports, and any concerns you may have. To optimize your time during the meeting, it’s a good idea to have a list of questions you wish to address. 

Here’s how you can make the most out of your one-on-one time with the teacher.

Conversation Starters:

• Let your child’s teacher know of any new changes at your home, and if your child may need a referral to receive social/emotional support from school staff.
• Improvements you've noticed in your child.
• Your appreciation for the teacher or the school's efforts during the pandemic.
• Your concerns and any desired areas of improvement for your child or additional assistance your child may need.

Academic Performance:

• If your child has an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or a 504 Plan, ask the teacher if he or she has reviewed it yet.
• How is your child doing academically?
• Is my child performing at grade level?
• How is your child doing compared to the rest of the class?
• How does your child interact with other students during in-person or online learning?
• How is your child doing emotionally?
• Which areas does your child excel in?
• Which areas does your child need improvement?
• Does the teacher feel that your child is doing his or her best?
• How can you help your child at home?

After the Parent-Teacher Conference, if you still have questions or concerns about your child’s progress, email or call the teacher to set up another time in which you can meet. You’ll have another opportunity to meet with your child’s teacher during the spring semester - January 25-29.