How to Get the Most Out of Parent-Teacher Conferences NYC Parent Academy

Did you know? The more involved families are in their children’s education, the more success their children will experience in school. Family support has a tremendous impact regardless of learning potential, economic status, or the school setting. NYC Parent Academy

What happens when families are involved? Students achieve higher grades and score higher on tests. Homework completion increases. Students’ behavior improves. Students’ attitudes about school improve. The chances of a student graduating high school and enrolling in college increases. NYC Parent Academy

There are factors that make it difficult to become involved… Cultural differences Language differences Lack of understanding of role in the education process Difficulty physically accessing their child’s school Time constraints NYC Parent Academy

But, family involvement takes many forms Speaking to your child about his/her school Encouraging your child to perform his/her very best Keeping informed of your child’s progress Communicating with your child’s teacher Staying connected with your child’s school Attending parent-teacher conferences NYC Parent Academy

How to prepare for your parent teacher conference Speak with your child before the conference. Ask: What do you like best about school? Why? What do you like least about school? Why? What subject is your best? Why? What subject is the most challenging for you? Why? Who are your friends in school? Why? Are you having difficulties in school? Why? NYC Parent Academy

Speak with others about your child to see if they have questions or concerns Your spouse Your child’s other parent Other family members Child care provider Tutor Anyone else who may have concerns or questions about your child NYC Parent Academy

Prepare a list of questions What is my child expected to learn, know, and do at this grade level? How will it be assessed? What are the big projects my child will be doing in your class this year? How will I know if my child is meeting grade level expectations throughout the year? What does my child do well? Where does my child struggle? Can you give me examples? NYC Parent Academy

“Today’s preparation determines tomorrow’s achievement.” Keep in mind… “Today’s preparation determines tomorrow’s achievement.” (source unknown) NYC Parent Academy

A Few Tips to Communicate Effectively Be a good listener. Don’t get defensive. Value differences in the people who are in your child’s life. Word things from your perspective, using “I” in place of “You.” For example: Say, “I feel confused” in place of “You are confusing.” Say, “I need more information” in place of “You are not providing me enough information.” NYC Parent Academy

Wrapping up your meeting… Check your list to be sure your greatest concerns were addressed. Identify the best way to stay in contact with your child’s teacher. Have a plan for the future. NYC Parent Academy

Work to Get and stay involved Actively communicating with your child’s school will keep you informed. Being informed will enable you to influence your child’s performance. And remember, there are many ways to be involved in your child’s education. NYC Parent Academy