Sera's Walk

To say that this world today is troubled would be an understatement. But it must be said. We need to look inside ourselves and then seek solid, spiritual counsel based upon Biblical Scripture to make our lives and our world better.

• The Lesson
• Parents on the Team
• Effective Conferences
• Prayer Covenant

   Reverend Marcia Bowman, MBA

HOW TO BE SUCCESSFUL IN

PARENT-TEACHER MEETINGS

One of the most difficult times parents face are the parent-teacher conferences at the end of each school term. Sometimes, parents are more anxious about these meetings than the students because they are facing an arena of the "unknown." Keys to a successful conference include: 

1. Preparing

2. Writing a list of concerns and/or issues for discussion

a. REQUEST positive observations and achievements relative to your child

b. Specific areas of concern regarding achievement and behavior

c. Ask for a solution where you can participate
d. Then, promise to follow up and come to a reasonable plan to seek improvements
e. If you totally disagree with the teacher’s assessment, go home and begin to observe your child.

f. If you need to go to the school administrator
g. BE REALISTIC

A variety of outcomes usually result from successful parent/teacher conferences. When teachers know that parents are truly concerned about their child, they will make sure the parent is contacted on a timely basis if the student is not working up to their potential. Parents will find out first hand if their child receives and completes homework, and about a variety of enrichment opportunities offered at the school. Teachers and parents will develop a bond where the student will receive all of the benefits.

Remember, your child is your first and last priority of every day. They are more important than your job, your friends and your social activities. They are irreplaceably your greatest assets. Your job is to help your children develop into healthy, prosperous, law abiding adults. Helping them enjoy a successful educational career as a vital and active team member is a huge investment which you will never regret.

Teachers are professional managers who are in charge of providing educational information and tools to approximately 120 students each day. Approach them with this understanding and your parent-teacher conference should go well...

To read the entire column go to About Us/ "Effective Conferences" subpage on this website.