When it comes to parent-teacher conferences, it's a toss up as to who least wants to be there -- the nervous parents braced to hear the worst about their beloved child, or the determined teacher prepared to deliver news that isn't always expected or appreciated. However much we might dread it, though, both parents and teachers know that regular -- and honest -- communication is essential to student success. The most important strategy for parent-teacher conferences, of course, is to be prepared.
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Explore the following resources for advice on getting the most from your parent-teacher conferences.
More About Parent-Teacher Conferences -- For Teachers
Meeting With the Parents -- Making the Most of Parent-Teacher Conferences
Research has shown that parental involvement is the most important factor in a student's success in school. For many parents, however, that involvement is limited to attendance at parent-teacher conferences. Learn how to make the most of the opportunity!
Student-Led Conferences
Many teachers and parents speak enthusiastically about the benefits of student-led conferences. Student-led conferences help students take responsibility of their own learning, reflect on what they have learned, and set goals for themselves, teachers say.
Parent-Teacher Conferences
"I have soft music playing in the background. It seems to soothe the parents and myself as well." A to Z Teacher Stuff offers this and more teacher-tested tips for making the most of parent-teacher conferences.
Breeze Through Your Conferences with Parents
Teaching is a Work of Heart includes links to a variety of helpful Web resources for parent-teacher conferences -- from pre-conference considerations to post conference feedback.
Parent-Teacher Conferences
Teacher Vision provides printable handouts containing information on child development and report cards, as well as printables to help you organize and plan for conferences -- and keep the lines of communication open throughout the year.
More About Parent-Teacher Conferences -- for Parents
Make the Most of Parent-Teacher Conferences
"Just as the teacher must prepare for the conference, so should you," says education writer Jackie Glassman, M.S.Ed. in this Discovery School article. "Here are some ideas for how you can get the most out of your parent-teacher conferences this year."
Parent-Teacher Conferences: A Guide for Parents
This article, prepared for the National Association of School Psychologists, is featured on
TeachersAndFamilies.com, a Web resource developed by teachers for students and their parents.
