How To Run Parent-Teacher Meetings Like An Expert

Would you give your life savings to an investment broker you never met? Purchase a home you never saw? Buy a car you never drove? So why put your children's future in the hands of teachers you don't know? Since the investment in your child's future is of the utmost importance, closely managing that investment should be paramount in your thinking. You begin by being involved in your children's education, holding both them and their teachers accountable, which guarantees you get the best return on your educational investment in your children.

As previously stated, developing strong partnerships with your child's teachers becomes an essential part of that investment because it deals with the business of your child's future. When parents view their child's education as similar to an investment, they can become more effective at managing their child's progress toward their highest level of achievement to get the best return. This 18-year commitment can become a highly significant asset to a child's learning career, which will pay huge dividends now, in your child's future, and for the rest of his or her life.

From the first day she enters school and on until she graduates, you are handing over your child to someone you don't know. Your child's success, performance, and attitude toward learning are dependent upon teachers who can have a major influence on shaping the way she learns and performs. Don't let this life-shaping experience take place without your involvement. Letting each teacher know you're involved and concerned, that you expect to take an active role in your child's education, puts everyone on notice that you're paying close attention to one of the single most important components of your child's life: her educational success.

Don't wait for quarterly report cards to tell you how well your child is doing before you address an issue that affects your child's performance. Establish your position early and address your expectations regarding your child's education each year.

As you review these questions, you'll recognize this is going to take time. Great—time is what you have. Remember, we're talking about your child, your investment. Obviously, parent-teacher meetings have time limits, so if you need additional time to address issues that require more attention, request a second meeting.

Once you've established that relationship, then communicating by email or phone may be something you and the teacher agree to incorporate. At that initial meeting, however, you need to be considerate of the teacher's time, so come prepared. Address your expectations from your child's academic, social, emotional, and behavioral standpoint. Discuss areas of need you're aware of regarding your child, as the teacher may not be aware of them and obviously needs to know in order to provide the best possible learning experience.

Once again, be open to the suggestions and recommendations from teachers and counselors. The goal is to establish an informed partnership to support your child's success. With a parent-teacher team that works together, everyone—students, parents, and teachers—succeeds, supporting the ongoing development of your child from the day he or she enters school until graduation and beyond.

If this all sounds a bit businesslike, it is. It's part of the business of raising your children, making sure their educational experience is meaningful and that your children and you get the best educational return on your investment. Remember, don't expect something from teachers or the educational system they can't or may not be willing to provide—particularly if you're not involved. Take charge and be an active participant in your child's educational career, and the results you both will achieve will be well worth your investment.