Parent Conferences

• Jeff lets a first year administrator handle this letter. This is no time to dress casually. You need professional attire and to great each parent is a friendly, respectful manner. Let the parent know how the conference will proceed and have samples of student work that shows growth. Start with positive comments and include as much positive feedback as possible throughout. Don’t feel like you have to do all the talking and listen carefully when parents speak. Strive for collaboration when you address any concern. Suggest strategies and look for parent input. The plan might require more attention or parent communication on the teacher’s behalf. Be sure to end on a positive note.
• The next chapter, composed by a teacher, discusses the idea of student-lead conferences. This requires students to evaluate their own work and critique it in front of an audience that includes teachers, parents, and anyone else they invite. (Doug: This reminds me of my dissertation defense.)

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