Meeting with your child’s teacher Elizabeth Nagy and Katie Anderson, Co-chairs GATE-DAC October 10, 2011
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
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
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
Wait before you respond Work for a consensus. Stress “we” not “you” Show courtesy Paraphrase Control your emotions
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
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
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
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?
Remember the goal Be persistent Stay focused Be positive Keep your sense of humor