As Murray approaches Parent/Teacher conferences Monday through Thursday (check you local school for days and times), we want to remind parents of the importance. Research overwhelmingly shows that strong communication between parents and teachers has a direct and positive correlation with student success. When parents are actively involved, students are more likely to:

• Achieve higher grades and test scores: A study by The Annie E. Casey Foundation highlights that parental involvement is consistently associated with a child's academic performance. One study found that personalized communication between teachers and parents of high school students led to a 41% decrease in the number of students failing to earn course credit.

• Have better attendance and behavior: Research from the American Psychological Association and other organizations shows that students with involved parents have improved behavior and more regular school attendance.

• Develop a positive attitude toward school: When children see their parents and teachers working together as a team, it helps them feel more motivated, engaged, and supported in their learning environment. This collaboration helps students see that their family and school have their best interests at heart.

• Gain a deeper understanding of their own learning: When students are included in the conference process, they can gain valuable self-advocacy skills. They learn to articulate their strengths, weaknesses, and academic goals, which can lead to greater confidence and a stronger sense of ownership over their education.

PTCs are short, one-on-one meetings between you and your child’s teacher(s) to discuss academic progress, behavior, and overall experience at school. They are an invaluable tool for opening this crucial line of communication.

Making PTC Productive

To make the most of your conference, MCSD encourages you to come prepared.

• Translation Services: MCSD offers various translation services to facilitate a productive meeting. Please coordinate with your student(s) teacher(s) if you need this support.

• Cannot Attend: If you are unable to attend, arrangements can be made to ensure this crucial coordination still happens. Contact your student’s teacher(s) to reschedule or discuss alternative communication options.

• Preparing for PTC: It's a great idea to engage your child in the preparation. Ask your child:

  • How they feel about school.

  • What they feel are their strongest and weakest subjects.

  • How they feel about their relationships with their teacher and peers (do they feel supported and welcomed?).

  • Review your child’s grades, scores, and attendance on Aspire (for secondary) and in Illuminate (for elementary). For all students, check Aspire to ensure your contact information is current.

• Prepare Your Questions: Make a list of questions you have for your student(s) teacher(s) and feel free to share information about your child that will help the teacher better connect with them.

• Extended Time: If you need more time to discuss specific concerns, please email or call your student’s teacher to schedule a separate, extended appointment.