Parent-Teacher Conferences

Typical Reasons for the Parent-Teacher Meetings

There are many reasons why a parent-teacher conference might be scheduled. Students who do not make adequate academic progress or students who are experiencing academic, behavioral, emotional, psychological, or social concerns in the class or in the school are reasons why a parent-teacher conference might be scheduled. These conferences might be scheduled by the teacher to help a parent understand what is occurring in the classroom. The conferences might also be requested by the parent to express a concern or inquire about the progress made by the student. In some instances, a principal or other school administrator might call a conference with the parent or with the parent and the teacher to discuss academic, behavioral, emotional, psychological, or social issues the student is encountering.

Conference Expectations

For regularly scheduled parent-teacher conferences at the beginning of the school year or at the beginning of the semester, parents can expect to have an opportunity to meet individually with their child's teacher. This meeting can occur in the teacher's classroom, school conference room, or other available room within the school building. The teacher meets with the parent for the scheduled amount of time, which may range from 10 to 30 minutes. This time range will depend upon the issues that need to be discussed during the meeting. During this time, the parent and teacher can discuss the student's academic progress, address class or school issues, and examine behavior or social issues of interest or concern to the parent. Specific suggestions for the parents and the teachers are listed below for consideration.

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