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Fall Parent Teacher Conferences:
- Monday, October 3 from 3:00-6:00 - by teacher invitation only
- Wednesday, October 5 from 3:00-6:00 - open conferencing
- Thursday, October 6 from 3:00-5:00 and 6:00-8:00 - open conferencing
Where will the teachers be?
- 6th-8th Grade Academic Teachers...in the O'Brien
- Enrichment Teachers...in their Classrooms
How should I prepare for Conferences?
- First, check your child's PowerSchool and review and reflect on both the grades and the reason for the grades (test scores, completed or missing work, etc.) Speak with your child about his/her performance in school, where his/her strengths and weaknesses are, what her relationship with the teacher is so far this year.
- Second, determine whom you would like to speak with - to get to know better, to understand the curriculum and methodology being used, to identify any skills or strategies your child has that is helping him/her be successful...or lacks and needs to develop.
- Third, make a list of the teacher's name and subject and any questions you may want to ask him/her.
Whom should I see during Conference? Any teacher you want to see or has requested to see you. You do not need to see every teacher - only see the ones you want to see.
What if I need longer than 10 minutes? If you need more than 10 minutes, please email the teacher and schedule a separate time for a longer conference.
Does my child have to attend the conference with me? No. If you would prefer your child not attend, please do not bring him/her. We do, however, encourage you to bring your child as s/he has great insights into his/her own learning and it is a great opportunity for you to help your child become reflective about his/her growth and success.
How does open conferencing work? Parents sit in a central area in the middle of the O'Brien, across from the teacher they want to see. When the table frees up, you simply move to see that teacher. There is a certain amount of self regulation required - knowing who is next in line and limiting yourself to the allotted 10 minutes. Please do not be offended if the teacher or administrator says it's time to go; feel free to request a longer or second conference if you have more to discuss.
Why are we doing it this way? We actually did open conferencing in February of 2020 right before everything went awry. It worked well and was a very efficient way to allow people to see the teachers. Remember - the teachers each have over 100 students each. This system allows teachers to see as many parents as need to see them. We are trying it this way and will ask you about your experience afterward.
We are looking forward to seeing you all next week at Parent-Teacher Conferences!
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