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Things to Inquire About at Parent/Teacher/Student Conference Time

by San Diego Bargain Mama

Conference time is usually a 20-30 minute block of time for parents (ideally both), teachers, and student to come together and discuss the progress and concerns of the student.  It is ideally a time when all parties have a valuable opportunity to participate as a team in focusing on the needs of the student.  If possible, go with a pad of paper and prepared written questions, and take notes.  You will retain more of what is said, and the teacher will be held more accountable for his/her end of the discussion.  The following are some inquiries you might make:

1. What type of support at home does the teacher recommend that specifically pertains to your child?
2. What skill does your child excel in and which does s/he need work on?
3. What extra support or projects are available when your kid is either advanced or behind in a certain area?
4. How often does your child meet in small groups with the teacher?
5. What supplemental learning materials could be borrowed from the school or school’s lending library (old textbooks, math manipulatives, etc.)?
6. What are the teacher’s specific short-term goals for your child in reading and math?
7. What form of communication does the teacher prefer when corresponding with parents?
8. How often will your child have PE, art, science, and music?
9. Does the teacher have a list of grade level literature to recommend?
10. Request that if s/he has an issue or concern regarding your child to alert you immediately.
11. Have the student participate by asking a question (practice at home) that might have to do with how s/he could show improvement, concerns about seating arrangement, etc.
12. Establish how/when you should ideally inquire about the student’s progress in the short-term goals that you have determined (by phone, letter, etc.).