I think about it like training for a marathon! There is no way I could run 26 miles next weekend without some significant and intentional training over time. I would need to start my training early, monitor my progress, and work through my challenges to ensure I was ready for this event (I guarantee I may still not feel ready, however, might be more confident).
I believe our teachers begin preparing for conferences with families through a similar process! It starts with that first effort to develop positive relationships with parents that first day of school and foster those relationships throughout the year through notes/calls home, communications, family nights, etc...paying closer attention to those families that may take a little more time and intentional focus. Aside from the ongoing communication, evidence of student learning is gathered along the way. This evidence (assessment results, artifacts, student reflections, among others sources) provides parents with a picture of the students progress.
Although this is descriptive of how many of you approach conferences, I know there are so many other ideas that might be helpful to others as well.
I'd like to hear more about the creative and effective ways you maximize this opportunity to achieve the desired outcome of engaging our parents/guardians as partners!
This Friday, Dr. Grover is hosting "Dr. Grover Live on Facebook". One of our topics will be about parent/teacher conferences. We want to get the word out to parents/guardians and families about what they can expect and how they can prepare to make this time worthwhile for all involved. To prepare, I want to hear from the experts-YOU!
So here is my call to action:
What makes a parent/teacher conferences effective for both the teacher and the parent/guardian? I have linked a google form and would love to hear about your ideas and suggestions! We will be sharing out different examples, ideas, and suggestions Friday afternoon for all audiences! Don't be shy...this is an opportunity to help our parents prepare as well!
Just in case you are interested, I also linked a couple of resources that might be helpful, especially for new teachers. Although an exhausting week, this small window of time with families can result in improved and collaborative relationships with parents for the benefit of the students! This makes it worth it!
"If kids come to us from strong, healthy functioning families, it makes our job easier, if they do not come to us from strong, healthy, functioning families, it makes our job more important." ~Barbara Colorose
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