It’s that time of year again – that’s right, report card conferences are coming up soon! And if you’re searching for the ultimate guide to rocking out your report card conferences and getting all the good you can from meeting with your child’s teachers, you’ve come to the right blog post.

Research shows that family engagement has a number of benefits for every child and every school. By attending conferences, you’re not only empowering yourself to help your child, but you’re also helping your child’s teachers and schools to learn more about your child and how they can help them achieve. At an ideal report card conference, family members/caregivers and teachers can talk about things inside and outside of the classroom. This is a chance to have two-way conversations and ask questions. Remember, teachers want to hear from you and value your presence at these conferences!

Before the Conference: Let’s Prepare!

• Take a few minutes to review some of your child’s major assignments in the class. How did they do? Notice any areas for improvement? You can review your child’s assignments by using our Parent and Family Portal application!
• Talk with your child about how they feel about the class; are they confident or having difficulties?
• Make a list of questions/concerns you have for the teacher before attending the conference so you can leave feeling knowledgeable. Check out a few example questions below:
  • How is my child performing in your class?
  • What are some subjects/areas in which my child excels?
  • What are some subjects/areas in which my child could grow?
  • What are some things I can do at home to help my child?
  • Are there specific books, apps, or resources my child can/should use for help in your class?
  • How is my child doing socially?
• Prepare to bring the following items to the conference:
  • a copy of your child’s report card
  • a short list of questions you have for your child’s teacher
  • something to take notes on (either your phone or a notepad!)

Are there ways you’d like to be involved in your child’s learning? Think of a few ways you might be able to help, if needed. Remember, there are many ways to support your child! Being involved in your child’s learning doesn’t mean you have to become an expert on what they are studying in class.

During the Conference: Let’s Connect!

• Utilize your list of questions to ensure a two-way conversation. Don’t be afraid to bring up concerns or questions – teachers are here to help and want to hear from you!
• Ask about your child’s progress in the classroom – is your child doing well in the class?
• Ask to see examples of your child’s schoolwork. This could give you ideas of how you can support your child.
• Talk about your child outside of the classroom. What are their hopes, dreams, and talents; what do they struggle with? Talking about your child beyond just academics is helpful for your child’s teacher and lets them get to know how they can support you and your child.
• Ask about how you can support your child’s learning at home and your child’s teacher can give you recommendations.
• Ask about any support services the school may offer to help your child. Our District has a lot of resources and partnerships! We’re here to help you and your child!

After the Conference: Let’s Continue the Conversation!

• Note practical action steps to move forward, and communicate them with the teacher. For example, if you feel like you might want to have a chat with the teacher every month to check in on a challenge your child is having, think of a schedule that works for you both. Remember, collaboration and two-way communication are the keys to a beneficial conference!
• Give the benefit of the doubt—remember that all parties involved in the conference are there for your child’s good.
• Assume that the other wants your child to advance in both learning and life skills.
• Talk to your child – share what you have learned and how you will help them at home. Ask your child for any suggestions too.