The Parent-Teacher Conference: Five Must-Ask Questions by Cindy Bond In order to help your child have a successful school year, you need to know what is expected of her/him, academically, from now until June. You can find out by asking some questions. Take this list with you to your next parent-teacher conference. And don’t forget to take notes!
1. What skills and knowledge will my child be expected to master this year?
- What will my child learn this year in key subjects like math, science, history, and English?
- Are there challenging academic standards in place at this school, and how do they compare with those at other school districts? May I see them?
- How do you inform students about the academic standards they’re expected to meet?
- What kind of projects and assignments have you planned that will help my child meet higher academic standards?
2. How will my child be evaluated?
- What kind of information do you use to evaluate students?
- How do you know if they’re academically ready to move on to the next grade? How are grades determined in your classroom?
3. What can I do to stay more involved in my child’s academic progress?
- What can I do at home to complement what is happening in the classroom?
- How can I know on a daily basis what homework has been assigned?
- How can I support teachers’ efforts in implementing higher academic standards?
4. How do you accommodate differences in learning?
- What if my child is a slow learner and falls behind, or is a fast learner and is bored?
- Are summer school, tutoring, or other programs available for students who need more help?
5. How are older students prepared for further learning after high school?
- Are children encouraged to think about a wide variety of career interests?
- Are all students encouraged to take algebra by the end of eighth grade?
