PARENT - TEACHER CONFERENCES
Parent-Teacher conferences are an important component of the educational process in Minnesota. It is an essential way for parents to make sure that they are an active participant in the education of their child.
Before you parent-teacher conference:
• Make a list of questions that you have about your child’s learning that you would like the teacher to answer.
• Talk with your child before conferences. Some conferences are designed for both the students and the parent to attend. Check with your child’s school to see if your child should also attend the conference.
• Ask your child what they think their teacher will say.
• Ask what they like and dislike about school.
• Ask your child if there is anything they would like you to talk about.
• Gather any information about your child you would like the teacher to know.
During your parent-teacher conference:
• Be on time.
• Take notes.
• Ask questions about your child’s learning as well as social skills.
• What is my child’s strongest and weakest subject?
• What can I do at home?
• Does my child complete assignments and homework?
• How well does my child get along with teachers and students?
• How are grades determined?
• What tests will my child be given this year?
• Share information about your child.
• How much your child reads at home
• Any special talents that may not be addressed at school
• What your child likes and dislikes about school
• Any health issues
• Update any information that may have changed such as, addresses, phone numbers or emergency contact information.
• Thank the teacher for her/his time.
PARENTAL RIGHTS
It's important for all parents to know that they have rights in the education of their children. In Minnesota, schools want and need the participation of parents. Parent-Teacher conferences are just one of the ways parents can participate. All students have a counselor assigned to them. The student or parent can set up a meeting to talk about any concern or answer any question. If the concern or question is not addressed to the satisfaction of the student or parent, a school administrator may be called in. Again, if the question or concern is not addressed to the satisfaction of the parent, the superintendent may become involved. Parents have the right to request meetings with all identified here along with an interpreter if needed.
Language concerns often inhibit parents from participating in their children's education. Use this WEB App to find schools that have in language resources that are available to help. Through Open Enrollment, parents can choose where they want their children to go to school. The most successful schools have multiple staff and resources to help parents that are fluent in a language other than English. The schools listed in this app have those Spanish resources.