The Parent Teacher Conference: Five Must-Ask Questions
By Cindy Bond
Source: Family Education Network

In order to help your kids have a successful school year, you need to know what is expected of them, academically, from now until June. You can find out by asking some questions. Take this list with you to your next parent-teacher conference. And don't forget to take notes.

1. What skills and knowledge will my child be expected to master this year?

• What will my child learn this year in key subjects like math, science, history, and English?
   
• Are there challenging academic standards in place at this school, and how do they compare with those at other school districts? May I see them?
   
• How do you inform students about the academic standards they're expected to meet? What kind of projects and assignments have you planned that will help my child meet higher academic standards?

2. How will my child be evaluated?

• What kind of information do you use to evaluate students? How do you know if they're academically ready to move on to the next grade?
   
• How are grades determined in your classroom?

3. What can I do to stay more involved in my child's academic progress?

• What can I do at home to complement what is happening in the classroom?
   
• How can I know on a daily basis what homework has been assigned?
   
• How can I support teachers' efforts in implementing higher academic standards?

4. How do you accommodate differences in learning?

• What if my child is a slow learner and falls behind, or is a fast learner and is bored?
   
• Are summer school, tutoring, or other programs available for students who need more help?

5. How are older students prepared for further learning after high school?

• Are children encouraged to think about a wide variety of career interests?
   
• Are all students encouraged to take algebra by the end of eighth grade?

Great Expectations: Ten Important Questions to Ask the Teacher
Source: Family Education Network

It's September. Your kids are off and running. But where's the finish line? In order to help your kids have a successful school year, you need to know what is expected of them, academically, from now until June. You can find out by asking some questions. Print this list out to take with you to that first parent-teacher conference. And don't forget to take notes!

1. What skills will my child be expected to master this year in math, science, history, and English?
    

2. What types of projects and assignments will my child complete to help him or her learn these skills?
    

3. Are there challenging academic standards in place at this school, and how do they compare with other school districts?
    

4. What information do you use to evaluate and grade students?
    

5. How do you know if they're academically ready to move on to the next grade?
    

6. What can I do at home to complement learning in the classroom?
    

7. How can I be kept informed of homework assignments?
    

8. What if my child is a slow learner and falls behind, or is a fast learner and is bored?
    

9. Are summer school, tutoring, or other programs available for students who need more help?
    

10. Are children encouraged to think about a wide variety of career interests?