The date for the high school's parent/teacher conferences is coming up on March 4th. Conferences will run in two sessions, one from 1:00pm-4:00pm and the second from 5:00pm-8:00pm.  Parents should call the Main Office at 348-2303 to schedule a conference with their child's teachers. 
    Only about one third of parents take advantage of this great opportunity. We would like to remind parents the benefits of getting more involved with your child's education.   Research shows that when parents become involved and collaborate with the school, students perform better academically, have greater social adjustment and have fewer behavioral issues.
    There may be a couple of different reasons that we have such a low turn out. For some  it may be difficult to come in and talk with the staff. Perhaps you didn't enjoy school and it was not a pleasant experience. One major change in school today is that we really welcome parent involvement. Everyone knows how difficult it is to juggle all the demands of parents today. After working all day, it is hard to find the time and energy to come in for a meeting. We have scheduled the conferences from 1pm to 8pm, in order to accommodate parents different schedules.
    Remember that a parent teacher conference is an optimal time to find out how your child is doing. Remember to ask questions about the class the student is taking and what is their progress. It is time to work as a team. Here are some suggestions to make your conference a success:

Before the conference:

Talk to your child- The best choice is to include them. But if this is not possible, you also can ask what it is that they like or dislike about the class. Is there anything that they would like discussed? How do they feel they are doing?

Make a list- Making a list helps ensure that you don't forget to say or ask something important. A list will also help organize the time, the time goes quickly.

During the conference:

Ask questions- Questions from parents can help the teacher understand your family's hopes and dreams for your child's future. Remember to ask the most important questions first; fifteen minutes will go fast!

Addressing difficulties- Avoid any blaming on either side, remember to work as a team! Ask what strategies are being used and determine what is working and what is not.   Develop an action plan with steps for both the family, the teacher, and most importantly, the student.  Be sure everyone is clear on the details. Find out: What is the best way to continue communication? E-mail? Phone calls? Times where each can be reached?

After the conference:

When discussing the conference with your child, make sure that you emphasize the positive. However, also be direct with any problem that may be identified. Explain any  strategies developed or action plan created. Reinforce the process as a opportunity for growth and a learning experience.  Monitor progress and stay in touch with the teacher. Remember a wonderful way to continue a positive relationship with your child's teacher is a simple thank you.
When a student sees that a teacher and parent are working together, they are getting the message that education is a priority that involves communication and commitment.