October 12, 2010 - The Austin School District urges parents of elementary students to meet with their child’s teacher during Parent-Teacher Conference Day on Monday, October 18.

No classes will be held on this day so that elementary teachers will be available to meet with parents. Middle and high schools also will be closed on October 18 for staff development meetings.  
 
All Austin schools will reopen on Tuesday, October 19.  
Parents of elementary students should contact their child’s school to schedule an appointment for a parent-teacher conference. This is a time for parents discuss their child’s academic progress and to plan for learning success for the rest of the school year.  
 
Teachers are eager to meet parents and will welcome questions and input. Together, they share a common goal — the academic success of children. Preparing will help parents get the most from their conference.  
 
Here are some tips for parents that can make the parent-teacher conference a success:

• Be positive about the conference with your child. Ask about favorite subjects and activities, and how he or she relates to the teacher.
• Decide on a few specific questions to ask the teacher. For example, Is my child reading at grade level? What are the class homework policies? What help can I give my child at home?
• Discuss any issues that your child has raised.
• Anticipate questions the teacher might ask. These could include your child’s interests and hobbies outside of school, possible health problems, and home study habits. This information will help the teacher better know and assist your child.
• After the conference, make a note of important points and share them with your child.
• Together, design an action plan to help promote academic growth. Finally, feel free to arrange future conferences whenever you have questions or concerns.

 
AISD’s next scheduled Parent-Teacher Conference Day will be held on Monday, February 21, 2011.