Making the Most of Parent-Teacher Conferences

Tips to Make the Most of Parent-Teacher Conferences

First published on November 20, 2024; updated November 2025

We all know the value of the relationship between home and school. There is significant research demonstrating that a strong connection between home and school positively influences a student’s academic performance, behavior, and long-term attitudes toward school and oneself. Parent-teacher conferences are an excellent tool to build that relationship. We asked some of the outstanding Glen teachers, who have attended hundreds of parent-teacher conferences, for tips on maximizing the quality of your experience. 

 

Before the conference:

Reviewing the progress report on Transparent Classroom before the scheduled conference time is helpful, allowing the time together to be spent on other topics or addressing specific questions you may have. 

If appropriate, talk to your child and find out if there is anything of concern for them. You can use this opportunity to discuss. 

Please note any questions or concerns you may have so that you can prioritize them during your meeting.

Even though the conference is remote, please plan to be in a space away from your child. This will allow everyone to talk openly without distractions.

 

During the conference:

Relax. The conference meetings provide an opportunity for the school and home to build a relationship for the student’s benefit. Everyone in the meeting is working toward the same goal of supporting your child’s education.

Feel free to ask questions, offer perspective, and participate fully. A conference is a two-way conversation, and your active participation is key to making the most of it.

Let the teacher know what you observe at home and how your child feels about their school experience. 

 

After the conference:

Continue the partnership! Stay in contact and provide feedback. We appreciate your participation and the valuable insights you provide.

 

A Note About Middle School:

In Middle School, students take on a greater role in reflecting on their learning through student-led conferences.

Instead of a traditional parent-teacher format, students guide the conversation—sharing their work, discussing their strengths and challenges, and setting goals for growth. These conferences, held in January and again in the spring, help students build confidence and ownership of their learning.

Parents can prepare in much the same way as they did for Upper Elementary (see above) and consider questions or observations they’d like to discuss together during this meaningful process with both the student and teachers.