1. Were you prepared for conferences?
I was definitely prepared for conferences. I had examples of student's compositions and other projects with their scores recorded separately so I would be able to show parents exactly what was going on. I also worked on updating my website prior to conferences so that I had a basic outline of the concepts we've been working on and projects we've been doing, as well as other useful information I could direct parents to.
2. What were the highlights?
I only saw two parents, but one that I did see was a mother of a student who gave me a lot of trouble as a long term sub in the spring. He has come a very long way with behavior, and I was thrilled to be able to talk to her about what a positive leader he has been in class, and to encourage his musical talent, since he's more advanced for his grade. She was very proud, and I was happy to establish a relationship with her from a very positive stand point. Where each of the two families were concerned, I enjoyed finding out more about my students' musical backgrounds and exposers. It was very eye-opening to hear about piano lessons, recorder exploration at home, and the kind of music they enjoyed playing and listening to.
3. What would you do differently?
I'd like to see more parents in the future, but I'm not sure how to make that happen more. I'd probably make a few more phone calls prior to conferences, both to share information about students who are struggling and students who are excelling.
4. What needs did you identify through conferences?
I didn't feel like any needs and changes were necessary, and were therefore not addressed. I was encouraged by the positive interactions I had.
Case Study Student Conference: I was unable to meet with my case study student's family.
I think my only question about conferences would be if anyone has other suggestions of how to draw more parents? I was frustrated that at one point, someone walked in my room simply to let their 3 year old play with the instruments and then proceeded to make awkward assumptions about me without giving me the chance to say anything. Is there a way I could have handled that situation other than kind of letting it pass, and brushing it off?
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Great job preparing for conferences Katie! I think it is great you had examples and updated your website. I also updated my website about the TC run etc coming up. I hope parents take the time to take a look at them =) That is great you were able to connect with that parent and show progress from where that student has come from. It is always nice to connect with parents to find out your students interests outside of school and what they really enjoy. I think the phone call idea is great Katie. That is a direct request to give parents an open invitation and a great way to connect with them even if they do not show up. Regarding your situation with the 3 year old coming in and playing with your instruments. I would have told the parent that the instruments are not toys and that if you would like your kid to run around that they gym is open! Maybe they didn't have a place to go and just wanted their kid to run around and burn some energy?
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