1. Meeting with your child’s teacher Elizabeth Nagy and Katie Anderson, Co-chairs GATE-DAC October 10, 2011

2.  Plan in advance what you are going to say  Write down thoughts and observations about your child’s abilities and struggles  Be aware that just because your child is identified as “gifted”, it doesn’t mean that they are receiving different services, or differentiation  Avoid using the term “gifted education” and focus on stating the dilemma without it - in that your child deserves to make a year’s of growth as do all others

3.  Bring examples of child’s work (at home or from school) as appropriate  If your student is old enough, have them participate; to encourage their ownership in their learning process and advocacy

4.  Expect the teacher to be reasonable  Approach from a positive note  Thank the teacher for giving you this time  Get to the point about why you feel it is necessary to meet  Listen carefully to what the teacher says  Make eye contact

5.  Wait before you respond  Work for a consensus. Stress “we” not “you”  Show courtesy  Paraphrase  Control your emotions

6.  Keep an open mind  Check to make sure your questions are answered before you leave  Plan a timeline for follow-up steps with the teacher  Thank the teacher for their time again

7.  Write a note of thanks  Don’t assume everything is fine after the conference  Write down the main points of the conference and plan  Communicate!  Talk with child and teacher periodically to assess progress  Be consistent in support

8.  Follow up with next steps as you agreed to with the teacher  Understand that you will probably need more conferences  Involve others as necessary. Follow chain of command.  Teacher, Principal, Parent Liason, Area Superintendent

9.  Trigger Words  Examples: “You always,” “my child is bored in your class,” etc  Attitude  “Shotgun approach”  Vinegar vs. honey  Lack of preparation  Keep in mind - If you were the teacher, how would you like to be approached by a parent?

10.  Remember the goal  Be persistent  Stay focused  Be positive  Keep your sense of humor