Student-Led (Parent-Teacher) Conferences

Student-Led Conferences take place in the fall and spring. Sign up is handled by individual classroom teachers through Konstella. Caregivers will also have an opportunity to schedule a conference with cluster teachers.

 

Preparing for your Student-Led Conference

Asking insightful questions can help you build a collaborative relationship with your children’s teachers and discover more ways to help your student outside the classroom. Remember that you – the family – are the experts about your child. You know your family values, your dreams for your child, your child’s dreams. Share them with your teacher.

Review your child’s academic record

Review your child’s progress, test scores, and attendance on your NYC Schools Account. If you have trouble logging in, here are some tips.

Think about what information you can share with your teacher

Share your child's favorite subjects, special interests or hobbies, medical conditions, family situation, or any situation that might affect their learning, attendance, or behavior.

Prepare a list of questions in advance to ask your teacher

Below are some sample questions if you need help brainstorming. Having the questions prepared in advance will help you make the best use of your time with your student's teacher. 

Academics

  • What does my child do well, and what does my child struggle with? Can you give me examples?
  • Is my child at the right reading level for their age and grade?
  • Is my child on target for what they are expected to learn, know, and do by the end of this grade?
  • How does my student do on homework assignments, quizzes, and tests?
  • How does my student do on in-class assignments and in discussions?
  • What can I do at home to better support my student’s learning?
  • Does my child have any outstanding assignments? If so, can you please provide me a list of those assignments and a timeline of when they need to be submitted?
  • Are there programs, services, or online tools that could help my child?
  • What questions would you recommend I ask my student at home to stay informed about their performance?

Social and emotional

  • How does my student do in social situations with peers?
  • How does my student act in social situations with staff and teachers?
  • Does my student like to get involved in class discussions and with their peers?
  • What can I do at home to better promote your behavior expectations?
  • Have you noticed any bullying in the classroom? From my student? From other students toward my child? How do you handle bullying and other negative behavior in the classroom? Who should I speak to if I believe my student is being bullied?
  • What can I do at home to help my child connect with other students in a positive way?

Classroom

  • What is the typical schedule for my student?
  • What is my student’s overall attitude in class? Does my student’s attitude change in certain situations?
  • How often do you give homework? How often do you schedule quizzes or tests?
  • How do you handle social challenges that arise during class, at recess, or during lunchtime?
  • Are you having any challenges with my student’s behavior? How do you typically handle them? What can I do at home to better help you overcome any challenges you may have with my student?
  • What is your philosophy regarding classroom discipline?
  • What is your philosophy on rewarding students for hard work or good behavior?

Curriculum

  • What skills are you working to develop with the students right now?
  • What are the most important skills you want students to develop this year?

Communication

  • What is the best way to contact you?
  • How can I stay informed of school programs and my student’s success?