Parent-Teacher Conferences

Parents and teachers are the two most important contributors to a student's educational success.  When parents and teachers communicate well with one another, they are able to support student learning together.  This makes the communication between home and school vital.  Meaningful communication between teachers and parents increases parental engagement in student learning.  It is also associated with:

1. higher academic achievement
2. increased attendance rates
3. positive student attitudes and behaviors
4. increased student readiness and interest in their work
5. increased parent satisfaction with teachers
6. higher teacher satisfaction ratings

However, parents and teachers don't always have many opportunities for interaction - which is why parent-teacher conferences are so important!  As you prepare for your upcoming conferences, you will take note of students' strengths and areas for development.  You may want to reach out to parents prior to your meeting with some sort of questionnaire (sample: Parent-Teacher Conference form). This will help you gather feedback, prepare a thoughtful response, and be most efficient with your time together.  Take time to talk to your students about their goals, and share this with the families as well.

Although the conference days are exhausting, they are also exhilarating, as they allow you to partner with families to build a successful school experience for your students.  Enjoy - and let me know how I can help you!

Have a great week!
Sue


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