Parent-Teacher Conferences

A parent-teacher conference is an interactive meeting between a parent and a teacher where the primary focus is on the child's academic, behavioral, emotional, psychological, or social functioning. Parents and teachers need to collaborate and keep the interest of the child as their main focus (Comer, 2003; Comer & colleagues, 1996; Dettmer & colleagues, 2002; Epstein, 1995). A parent-teacher conference can occur at any time of the school year to address the needs of the child or the concerns of a parent or a teacher. Conferences can also provide an opportunity for parents to talk with teachers about the progress their child is making in the classroom. Conferences, which are scheduled and conducted regularly with school personnel, provide a means for parents and teachers to ...