For years parent-teacher conferences have been the primary means of parent-teacher communication. But now, many schools are trying something new -- student-led conferences that communicate not only how a student's doing but also why.....
Parent-teacher conferences -- we all know how they go. Parents troop into classrooms to talk with teachers about their children's progress in school. Often, the process feels rushed, and parents leave feeling vaguely dissatisfied, as if they didn't really get what they came for.
For years that process has been the norm, but now it is changing. In more and more schools, students are leading conferences, and, overall, the word is that they're doing a fine job.
Parents' Comments -
- "My child is more reflective, more self confident, self-directed, owning her work.”
- “I am so impressed with the enthusiasm my son shows in regard to learning more and understanding schoolwork.”
- “I stay at conferences as long as they will let me; time is always too short.”
- “I want to thank you for everything the school and teachers have done. I was so impressed with his attitude and the way he conducted himself I m really proud of my son"
- “I love it; it encourages me to be very well organized.”
- “It helps bring out the best in me.” “I like (creating the portfolio); I’m more in charge.”
- “Things at home are about the same, but my mom helps me more now.”
