Successful PreK-12 Parent Teacher Conferences
6 Strategies for Better Organization and Improved Communication
Nov 8, 2008
Experienced teachers know that successful conferences early in the year will lead to smooth working relationships that will only benefit students over the following months. Here are six success strategies that new (and veteran) teachers will want to keep in mind:
Organize for Conferences
Compile everything pertaining to each student into individual folders, clearly labeled by last name. In each folder, put progress information and student artifacts in the order they will be presented, and decide ahead of time which pieces will be for parents to take home. If other important papers for specific children need attention (such as permission slips that need to be signed), flag those with a colored tab. Finally, put the individual folders in order according to the appointment schedule.
Inform Parents
When discussing students, go beyond the grades parents would have already received and describe the types of assignments done in the class, highlighting the student's strengths and areas to work on in relation to the skills being taught. Have suggestions printed out for what the parents can do to help students at home, and ask about any concerns parents may have about the class or student progress.
Discuss Students Personally
Parents appreciate teachers who can discuss more than grades. They want to hear that their child is really known for his or her unique qualities. Take the time to share an anecdote or two about the student, letting parents know the ways in which the student contributes to the class. However, in order to maintain confidentiality, never compare a student with other classmates or discuss children with parents other than their own.
Keep a Conference Appointment Schedule
Like teachers, most parents are on tight schedules, fitting conferences in between work or other obligations. Have a schedule of conference appointments with you as you meet, and either sit facing the clock, have a clock with you at the table, or set a timer to stay on schedule. If more time is needed for a particular conference, plan what is to be accomplished at the first meeting, and then schedule a follow-up appointment or a phone conference for a later time.
Be Professional
As professionals, teachers should listen carefully to concerns that are expressed and take notes if necessary on any follow-up steps. Keep a notebook handy and label a page for each student. As parents ask questions or express concerns, jot them down and then follow-up with a phone call or email as soon as possible after the conference is over. Other tips for maintaining professionalism include refraining from eating or chewing gum during conferences, avoiding slang, dressing professionally, and remaining cordial and composed even if parents are upset about a classroom issue.
Communicate Proactively with Parents
Continue building communication with parents by sending a thank-you note or email to all who attended conferences and a brief note to those who were unable to attend, letting them know that a later conference time is always available. Develop a regular schedule of parent communication, either by e-newsletters, classroom publications, or short notes home, so that parents know that the teacher is accessible and interested in parent input.
Parent-teacher conferences can be enlightening events where caring adults come together for the purpose of improving learning and celebrating the success of an individual child. By following these tips, new teachers can count on celebrating successful first conferences, too!
Further Reading
Allen, Jobeth. Creating Welcoming Schools: A Practical Guide to Home School Partnerships with Diverse Families. Newark, DE: International Reading Association, 2007.
Elmore, Michael. "Effective Parent Conferences". Principal Leadership, February, 2008, p 7-8.
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