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BEFORE THE CONFERENCE
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Be sure in your own mind about the purpose of the
conference. Whether the conference is one in a regularly
scheduled series of meetings to discuss your child's academic
progress or report card or has been requested to discuss a
problem or concern, remember that you and the teacher meet as
adults mutually concerned about your child's achievement and
well-being.
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Talk with your child before you go. Ask what she likes
about school, what she dislikes or would like changed. What are
her feelings about the teacher, the class environment, herself?
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Write down things it would be helpful for the teacher to know,
such as: |
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Any unusual stress at home.
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You child's relationship with brothers, sisters, and others at
home.
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What he likes to do in free time at home.
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Organized activities in which your child participates.
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Your perception of your child as a learner and as a person.
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Previous school experiences, if you think it would be helpful.
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Write down questions you have for the teacher:
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How much homework will my child have? How should I help?
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How are grades decided?
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What is the classroom discipline policy?
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What kinds of tests are given? What do they mean?
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Write down questions you have about your child:.
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How is my child doing in reading, math, and other subjects
compared to her potential; compared to the norm at her grade
level?
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How is my child doing socially? Does he get along with others?
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What does she like to do? What does she not like to do?
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Does he seem happy in school? Are there any problems?
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Include questions you have about why things are done in a
certain way: |
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What happens to the homework after it is handed in, since we don't
see it again? How does a child move into a different reading
group, etc.?
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Whenever possible, both parents or guardians should
attend.
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You have a right to an interpreter at the conference.
However, if you need one, remember to ask in advance.
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DURING THE CONFERENCE
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Keep in mind that you are meeting with your child's teacher,
not your own. You are meeting as partners which means
meeting as equals, sharing the responsibility for you child's
education.
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Tell the teacher the things you have listed in your notes
from home that you think would be helpful for her to know.
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Ask the questions on your list. As other questions come
up during the discussion, make sure you discuss your child's
achievements and development--academically, socially, and
emotionally.
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If you do not understand something, immediately ask to have it
explained.
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Ask the teacher what specific activities you can do at
home that would help your child's progress. Sometimes an
"action plan" can be worked out to tell you what to do to
help your child at home and what the teacher will do at school.
Make sure it is clear who is to do what and when; what has been
agreed on for the teacher to do, the parent to do, and the
student to do; and how you will stay in contact.
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Take notes during the conference so you can remember what was
said.
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Assure the teacher of your continued support. State your
appreciation for the opportunity to discuss your child's
education.
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