Parent-teacher conferences are not obligatory meetings that are not worth the time and effort required during a busy week. A one-on-one meeting with a child’s teacher is one of the only opportunities parents have to understand the teaching style and the curriculum of the student’s class. These meetings also give insight into both the social and academic challenges the student may be experiencing.

First and foremost, parent-teacher conferences are an excellent opportunity for parents to communicate with their child’s teacher. These conferences can be used to address concerns or questions the parent has about their child’s academics. In return, the teacher can provide data about the student’s progress in their class as well as provide insight on how to improve, if necessary. An example of this is if a student does poorly on a test, teachers might offer better study strategies or discuss the student’s time management challenges.

“If their student is not doing well their parents will ask, ‘Where did this student falter? How can I help? What can I do to make my child’s grade better?’” said ninth grade English teacher Mx. Lyle.

Furthermore, parent-teacher conferences are a chance for parents to become familiar with their child’s teacher and their way of teaching. By understanding the curriculum and teaching style of the class, parents are better equipped to assist their child if they ever need help.

“I like to use these conferences to form my own opinion about the teacher and develop a better understanding of their teaching style. I do this so I know how to better encourage my kid when they are struggling,” said Nicole Messina, a high school parent.

In addition to teachers and parents, students also feel that parent-teacher conferences are beneficial to their education. Freshman Ariel Commero believes that parent-teacher conferences are an opportunity to improve in her academics as well as grow as a person.

“I would say parent teacher-conferences are important because my parents can tell me what my teachers are saying about me, so I can improve and change,” said Commero.

She believes that a parent’s involvement in their child’s education makes a positive contribution to their child’s academic success. That being said, not all parents are capable of being present in these meetings because of their busy schedules.

“Parent-teacher conferences benefit the students whose parents have the time, energy and the ability to come to parent teacher conferences,” said Lyle.

Overall, parent-teacher conferences are beneficial to students in numerous ways. They provide a time for parents to communicate with their student’s teacher and discuss how to improve their child’s educational experience.