Student-Led Conferences Susan Barrett Nicholas County Schools

How effective are parent-teacher conferences at your school?

What is a Student-Led Conference?

Traditional vs. Student-Led Between teacher and parent Teacher is in charge One at a time Few parents reached Few students involved Confrontational atmosphere Between student and parent Student is in charge Simultaneous conferences Almost all parents reached All students involved Celebratory atmosphere

Benefits for Students Empowerment / Accountability Opportunity to connect two worlds Share progress, triumphs, tough spots

Student-Led Conferences Do Not Stand Alone!!

Drawbacks? Change = Challenge More preparation ahead of time 100% participation goal Parent and teacher do not have a conference.

Classroom Teacher’s Responsibilities Talk it up! Collect work Invitations Help students organize work Teach introductions Schedule practice Write Letters of Encouragement

Support Staff’s Responsibilities Talk it up! Scheduling Follow up on R.S.V.P. Plan for Schoolwide Stations Plan for Siblings

Scheduling Concerns Siblings Parking Child care

Other Considerations Food Transportation Child Care Computer Lab

Other Opportunities School Surveys Little League Sign-Ups Information for Parents Art Show

Maximizing Attendance Invitations Appointments R.S.V.P. Phone Calls Food Door Prizes

Before Conferences

Collecting Work Year-long process Self-selected vs. teacher-selected Self-reflection on accomplishments and struggles Opportunity to set new goals Options for organization of work

Sending Invitations Letter-writing opportunity Short and simple Make it personal Be sensitive Include R.S.V.P.

Folder Contents Samples of work from several subjects Work that shows growth Special projects Progress charts, graphs, and lists Checklist to guide the conference References to non-folder items Request for feedback Letter of Encouragement

Other Preparation Practice introductions Practice conferences with peers Get the room ready Support only as much as necessary –Empower your students –Some may need extra help

The Letter of Encouragement A personalized note for each student that is inserted in the folder after school and before the conference

Dear Michael, I am so glad to have you in my class this year. You help to make it a special place to come to each morning. I am proud of you for working so hard recently on learning your multiplication facts. This will make long division so much easier for you! You have become a very strong writer and I look forward to reading each new piece you write. I especially enjoyed reading about what you want to be when you grow up. You only need to find the courage to make your dreams come true, just as Monolo did in Shadow of a Bull. I know that you can do it! Remember to share your work that is hanging in the classroom and in the hallway. This is your time to show off all the things you have accomplished. Your parents must be very proud of you. I know that I am. Sincerely, Mrs. Rader

Supporting Your Students

During Conferences

What the Student Does Introductions Shares folder contents Tours the room Asks for feedback

What the Teacher Does Smile Is introduced to parents Observe

The Paper Trail Sign-In Sheet Request for Conference Feedback for Student Feedback for School

Results Overwhelming positive response 100% of students lead a conference 70% – 80% conferences that night 15 years and counting

After Conferences

Follow-Up Every child will lead a conference with a caring adult.

Would this work at your school?