Parent-Teacher Conference Tips for Teachers
Pumpkins, parties and parent conferences, oh my! Make the most of your parent-teacher conferences this busy Fall season with these helpful Do's & Don'ts:
Do: Schedule classroom parents for conferences with free online signup sheets. Allow parents the convenience of signing up for their conference slot from their computer or smartphone; and rely on automated reminders to help everyone remember! More info here
Don't: Send a reply-all email to parents and expect not to stress out over sifting through 30 replies to schedule parents.
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Do: Offer ways for parents to attend remotely, i.e. via Skype, Facetime, Google Hangout, in case their busy schedule or possible emergency prevents them from getting to the school.
Don't: Wait to the last minute for straggling parents to sign up; email them or message them from your VolunteerSpot parent-teachere conference signup with reminders to fill a slot or find a way to work with their schedule.
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Do: Use social media to get the word out about parent-teacher conferences. Tweet, facebook, include on the class blog and in the eNewsletter. More ideas here
Don't: Send a flyer home with students and expect it not to get lost in the shuffle.
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Do: Be prepared for each conference to discuss the individual student in a positive and encouraging way. Remember, it's a collaborative conversation with parents, not a tell-all. More tips here
Don't: Find yourself struggling to remember specifics you want to discuss with parents. Jot down notes for each conference and be prepared with these extensive resources for teachers here
