There are many ways for teachers to approach conferences. It could be a time to focus on the academic strengths and weakness of a child. The social and emotional skills of each student could be the star of the conversation. We could spend our 20 minutes discussing the activities the children have been involved or their interests in over the past few months. We could even discuss troubles the child has at home and school, seeing where they meet and work on solutions together.
In the past, I’ve prepared notes for each conference detailing strengths and areas for growth for each student. I’ve spent the first 15 minutes talking to the parents and then, in the last five asked them if they have any concerns or questions. I think it worked, but I think we can make our conferences more useful.
This year, I want to try something new. I want to know what you, the parent or caregiver, are most interested in discussing. We’ve spent two months with your child and are getting to know them pretty well. You are the members of our team that we don’t know well, yet.
Before you meet with us on Friday, please consider what you’d like to talk about most. I want our time together to be productive for you, especially since you are taking time out of your busy day to visit with us. For this reason, one of the first things I’ll ask you on conference day is:
What would you like to talk about today?