What is the Best Way to Handle a Parent-Teacher Conference?

Teaching with Valor Podcast: A Veteran Teachers Perspective

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Hello, and welcome to Teaching with Valor, where we dive into the real-life challenges teachers face in the classroom. I’m Don Fessenden, your host, and today’s episode is all about one of the most crucial touchpoints between teachers and parents: the parent-teacher conference.

We’ve all been there. The clock is ticking, you have just 15 or 20 minutes with each parent, and you need to convey important information, answer questions, and build a positive relationship—all within that short time frame. It’s no small task, but a well-executed parent-teacher conference can lead to significant benefits for the student. When handled well, it can increase parental support at home, create a team approach for the student’s success, and help build a bridge between school and home life.

In this episode, we’re going to break down the steps for a successful parent-teacher conference, from preparation to follow-up. We’ll cover strategies for creating a welcoming atmosphere, delivering both positive feedback and constructive insights, and handling unexpected questions or concerns with grace. Whether you’re an elementary, middle, or high school teacher, these insights will help you make the most of your time with parents and leave a lasting impression.
Show Notes
For more information on this topic checkout the following resources:

• Edutopia – Tips for Effective Parent-Teacher Conferences: www.edutopia.org - Comprehensive strategies for making the most of parent-teacher conferences.
• National PTA – Building Partnerships with Parents: Guides and resources on fostering strong parent-teacher relationships.
• Understood – Navigating Parent-Teacher Conferences for Success: Tips on handling challenging conversations and creating a positive environment.
• Scholastic – How to Prepare for Parent-Teacher Conferences: Advice on setting a productive tone and keeping conferences focused and solution-oriented.
• Harvard Family Research Project – Parent-Teacher Conference Best Practices: Research-backed tips on improving communication and creating collaborative partnerships with parents.

Stay tuned for more episodes, and remember, every student is unique, and every classroom can be a place where all students succeed. Keep teaching with valor!