For Families: Write down a few questions before the meeting. Here are a few good ones: “What strengths do you see in my child?” “What are a few things I can be doing at home to support what he/she is learning at school?” “What are some ways I can check in on my child’s social and emotional health?”

For Educators: Many families enjoyed Zoom and online conferencing. It was easier and more comfortable. If possible, keep online as an option for families instead of coming into the school building. Encourage parents to invite any member of the family to join this conversation.

For Building and District Leaders: How are you supporting meaningful parent-teacher conferences? Create mini-focus groups with families and teachers and ask how the conference experience could be improved. Resist the urge to check a box and instead capitalize on these conversations as an opportunity for families to build trusting relationships with school staff.

Nov. 15-19 will be declared (for the first time) “Kentucky Family Engagement in Education Week.” Sign-up here or Click Here to receive information on how you, your schools or your community can participate.

How Advocates Can Ensure ARP Funding Goes to the Students Who Need it the Most – The Education Trust (edtrust.org)