eNews Archive

October 22, 2007

Dear Plano ISD eNews Subscriber:

This coming Friday, October 26, is designated as a “Parent-Teacher Conference Day / Student Holiday” in Plano school…Research conducted over the past quarter century has shown convincingly that parent involvement has a critical effect on a child’s learning, attitude about school and aspirations. When parents and teachers work together, they can make an unbeatable team.

To assist you in preparing for this important event, our school counselors have compiled the following information and suggestions for success.

Before the conference:

Write down some questions that you want to discuss such as:

How is my child doing in class?
Is my child performing on grade level in math, reading, science, etc.?
Does my child follow directions and use his time well?
How are my child’s work habits?
How much time should I expect my child to spend on homework each night?
What are my child’s strengths and weaknesses at school?
How does my child get along with classmates?
Is my child respectful of adults at school?
What can I do at home to support what you are doing in the classroom?

Be prepared to talk and listen during the conference. What goes on at home affects how well a child does in school. Be sure to let the teacher know about such key events as a separation or divorce, family illness, new baby or death of a loved one. It is not necessary to share all your personal business, but it will help the teacher to know these important events.

At the conference:

Arrive on time and stay only for the amount of time scheduled for your appointment. If questions have not been discussed or answered to your satisfaction, ask for a future appointment.

Talk about your child’s interests and any special information that seems to be a concern to your child. Make notes about the discussion that you may want to review with your child.

If you child needs additional help, ask for suggestions from the teacher.

Ask the teacher to explain anything you do not understand. Sometimes an educator will use acronyms for a special program and leave you in the dark…Be sure and speak up!

Summarize your understanding of your child’s progress and the teacher’s comments to make sure you and the teacher are in full agreement.

Follow up on any plan of action. Stay in touch with the teacher. If you think of additional questions later, feel free to e-mail the teacher or leave a voicemail.

After the conference:

Discuss with your child what was said during the conference, being sure to emphasize the positive comments made by the teacher.

Talk to your child about ways to improve academics and work study habits.

Use this as a chance to praise your child and to show your true interest in his or her school life.