#mdeschat Archive
A weekly chat focusing primarily on educational issues relevant to Elementary School educators based in Maryland.
Thursday November 2, 2017
8:00 PM EDT
participatechat
Nov 2 @ 8:00 PM EDT
Participate in the upcoming
#mdeschat
by sharing resources and collaborating at
https://t.co/LeNJfLrqxV
mdeschat
Nov 2 @ 8:00 PM EDT
Welcome to
#mdeschat
, please introduce yourself and share a memory from childhood about when your parents conferenced w/your teacher.
principal64
- Moderator
Nov 2 @ 8:00 PM EDT
Chris, elementary principal, I remember being worried, waiting for my parents to come home to find out if I was in trouble đ§
#mdeschat
missreed
- Moderator
Nov 2 @ 8:03 PM EDT
Rian from
#LaurelHighSchool
! I remeber being excited to show my parents all the great work I did!
#mdeschat
mdeschat
Nov 2 @ 8:03 PM EDT
We are going to use a free-form approach to tonightâs chat, stay tuned for details!
#mdeschat
AllieMcLamb
Nov 2 @ 8:03 PM EDT
It was always such a nerve-wracking experience!
#mdeschat
In reply to @principal64
janercooper
Nov 2 @ 8:03 PM EDT
Jane, Texas, Ed consultant. I was always in trouble, so waited at home for the shoe to drop
#mdeschat
WalterReap
- Moderator
Nov 2 @ 8:03 PM EDT
Walt, Principal of CRJ in Baltimore. I recall Ps coming to school in response to issues, to help out with career day, and sports.
#mdeschat
mdeschat
Nov 2 @ 8:04 PM EDT
Good to have everyone here!
#mdeschat
jazzmeister2013
Nov 2 @ 8:05 PM EDT
Hey
#mdeschat
leaders! Greg- K,
#TeamFelegy
. Hope all are well. Operating on mobile tonight with low battery. Ready to engage!
principal64
- Moderator
Nov 2 @ 8:05 PM EDT
That's exactly how I felt!
#mdeschat
In reply to @janercooper
mdeschat
Nov 2 @ 8:06 PM EDT
Instead of the Q1/A1 format, letâs try a grab bag of questions about conferencing w/parents, toss out a Q & see where it goes!
#mdeschat
AllieMcLamb
Nov 2 @ 8:07 PM EDT
What do you think about student led conferences?
#mdeschat
@astang15
mdeschat
Nov 2 @ 8:07 PM EDT
What are some good questions? Throw them out
#mdeschat
mdeschat
Nov 2 @ 8:08 PM EDT
Great question!
#mdeschat
In reply to @AllieMcLamb, @astang15
WalterReap
- Moderator
Nov 2 @ 8:08 PM EDT
When a mother came into the classroom, that parent was from the neighborhood and positively influenced behavioral outcomes.
#mdeschat
missreed
- Moderator
Nov 2 @ 8:08 PM EDT
We are having an open forum tonight for
#mdeschat
! Share your question related to Parent Conferences and Communication!
mdeschat
Nov 2 @ 8:06 PM EDT
Instead of the Q1/A1 format, letâs try a grab bag of questions about conferencing w/parents, toss out a Q & see where it goes!
#mdeschat
principal64
- Moderator
Nov 2 @ 8:09 PM EDT
I think they are great for middle school & strong learners, harder for struggling students
#mdeschat
In reply to @AllieMcLamb, @astang15
missreed
- Moderator
Nov 2 @ 8:10 PM EDT
A1: Student-Led conferences require modeling and practice!
#mdeschat
AllieMcLamb
Nov 2 @ 8:07 PM EDT
What do you think about student led conferences?
#mdeschat
@astang15
principal64
- Moderator
Nov 2 @ 8:11 PM EDT
I'm sure mine would too!
#mdeschat
In reply to @janercooper
missreed
- Moderator
Nov 2 @ 8:11 PM EDT
Q2: How can we prepare our PARENTS for Parent-Teacher Conferences
#mdeschat
AllieMcLamb
Nov 2 @ 8:11 PM EDT
I agree that it would be harder for struggling learners but I think if modeled correctly we could showcase student progress!
#mdeschat
In reply to @principal64, @astang15
AllieMcLamb
Nov 2 @ 8:12 PM EDT
I agree! It would definitely be work, but student input is so important!
#mdeschat
In reply to @missreed
mdeschat
Nov 2 @ 8:12 PM EDT
https://t.co/uCRwlxtj58
#mdeschat
AllieMcLamb
Nov 2 @ 8:13 PM EDT
Maybe send an email and ask them to think of questions they have so they can come prepared? Give some example ?s
#mdeschat
In reply to @missreed
principal64
- Moderator
Nov 2 @ 8:14 PM EDT
The best preparation for conferences is knowing your students completely,strengths, challenges, learning style, likes/dislikes
#mdeschat
AllieMcLamb
Nov 2 @ 8:14 PM EDT
Great source to reference when thinking about student-led conferences
#mdeschat
mdeschat
Nov 2 @ 8:12 PM EDT
https://t.co/uCRwlxtj58
#mdeschat
missreed
- Moderator
Nov 2 @ 8:15 PM EDT
A2: Great idea! Send a list of questions ahead of time for Parents to prepare for conference!
#mdeschat
AllieMcLamb
Nov 2 @ 8:13 PM EDT
Maybe send an email and ask them to think of questions they have so they can come prepared? Give some example ?s
#mdeschat
In reply to @missreed
mdeschat
Nov 2 @ 8:16 PM EDT
Keep those questions coming!
#mdeschat
WalterReap
- Moderator
Nov 2 @ 8:16 PM EDT
Communicate the purpose of conferences as a chance to engage in dialogue around student and schoolâs outcomes; feedback and tips.
#mdeschat
In reply to @missreed
missreed
- Moderator
Nov 2 @ 8:16 PM EDT
Q3: What tech tools do you use to connect with parents?
#mdeschat
AllieMcLamb
Nov 2 @ 8:16 PM EDT
What would you include on the list of questions?
#mdeschat
In reply to @missreed
janercooper
Nov 2 @ 8:17 PM EDT
A2: if conf early in year, getting-to-know you survey helpful. Later, a "status" outline prior to conf helps prioritize agenda.
#mdeschat
AllieMcLamb
Nov 2 @ 8:18 PM EDT
Yes! Conferences don't have to be negative they are a chance to recognize our S's strengths and help to support their learn. needs
#mdeschat
In reply to @WalterReap, @missreed
mdeschat
Nov 2 @ 8:18 PM EDT
Conference form link
https://t.co/HDybTxK1cc
#mdeschat
jazzmeister2013
Nov 2 @ 8:18 PM EDT
#mdeschat
A3- Using
@ClassDojo
this year and loving it. Great way to connect w/ parents and share Ss successes.
missreed
- Moderator
Nov 2 @ 8:19 PM EDT
Here is a list of questions parents can ask!
https://t.co/L3Lw6n0pBK
#mdeschat
In reply to @AllieMcLamb
janercooper
Nov 2 @ 8:19 PM EDT
I always ask what "chores" kids have at home. Answers tell a lot!
#mdeschat
lynda_matthew
Nov 2 @ 8:19 PM EDT
Q1. A1 I think it helps reassure students that parents and teacher are there to support them in their progress.
#mdeschat
#Meda5400edchat
In reply to @AllieMcLamb, @astang15
AllieMcLamb
Nov 2 @ 8:20 PM EDT
I've seen a lot of apps that teachers use, I would also make sure to include a hardcopy of info in case they don't have access
#mdeschat
In reply to @missreed
principal64
- Moderator
Nov 2 @ 8:20 PM EDT
The more ways you can connect w/parents beyond formal conferences, the better, parents don't like surprises, keep them in the loop
#mdeschat
missreed
- Moderator
Nov 2 @ 8:21 PM EDT
Thanks for joining!
https://t.co/UWzFO4l70h
is a good tool to connect w/ teacher and parents!
#mdeschat
In reply to @Patches8Reed
AllieMcLamb
Nov 2 @ 8:21 PM EDT
https://t.co/YUej6mZrMt
This source has 12 apps that support parent-teacher communication
#mdeschat
In reply to @missreed
mdeschat
Nov 2 @ 8:22 PM EDT
Can you hear the brain waves crackling? Great questions and answers
#mdeschat
AllieMcLamb
Nov 2 @ 8:23 PM EDT
Great point! We should be communicating with parents for positive reasons in addition to negative ones
#mdeschat
In reply to @principal64
principal64
- Moderator
Nov 2 @ 8:24 PM EDT
What do new teachers need to know about conferences?
#mdeschat
Patches8Reed
Nov 2 @ 8:24 PM EDT
nice now long off đ»
#mdeschat
In reply to @missreed
AllieMcLamb
Nov 2 @ 8:25 PM EDT
This
@edutopia
article has a lot of great sources to consider for parent teacher conferences!
https://t.co/EOEvnNbgef
#mdeschat
missreed
- Moderator
Nov 2 @ 8:25 PM EDT
@BloomzApp
is also another option for Parent-Teacher communication!
#mdeschat
WalterReap
- Moderator
Nov 2 @ 8:25 PM EDT
Communicate what will happen as a result of the conference. What can be a shared result of the meeting with clear steps for all?
#mdeschat
Patches8Reed
Nov 2 @ 8:25 PM EDT
nice now log off đ»
#mdeschat
In reply to @missreed
lynda_matthew
Nov 2 @ 8:25 PM EDT
I am new to edchat I hope to learn a lot here
#mdeschat
#meda5400edchat
AllieMcLamb
Nov 2 @ 8:26 PM EDT
I will be a new teacher next year so I'd be interested in any tips you all can give!
#mdeschat
In reply to @principal64
janercooper
Nov 2 @ 8:26 PM EDT
New Ts need to know to sandwich constructive criticism b/n sincere praise.
#mdeschat
In reply to @principal64
mdeschat
Nov 2 @ 8:27 PM EDT
.
@AllieMcLamb
is on fire! Great questions, answers & links! Thanks!
#mdeschat
WalterReap
- Moderator
Nov 2 @ 8:27 PM EDT
Remember conferences are important times to hear from Ps. Take a deep breath and use the time to strengthen the relationship.
#mdeschat
missreed
- Moderator
Nov 2 @ 8:27 PM EDT
WELCOME! We are having an open forum tonight! Share a question that you have about Parent-Teacher communication/ Conferences
#mdeschat
In reply to @lynda_matthew
missreed
- Moderator
Nov 2 @ 8:28 PM EDT
Welcome to the profession! We need you!!! :)
#mdeschat
In reply to @AllieMcLamb, @principal64
mdeschat
Nov 2 @ 8:29 PM EDT
Whoâs got the next question? Fire it off đ
#mdeschat
MelissaSTuttle
Nov 2 @ 8:30 PM EDT
Utilizing student led conferences were one of the best things Iâve done so far in my teaching career.
#mdeschat
AllieMcLamb
Nov 2 @ 8:30 PM EDT
Great point, we should use this time to learn more about our students and where they are coming from
#mdeschat
In reply to @WalterReap
jazzmeister2013
Nov 2 @ 8:31 PM EDT
#mdeschat
Q- How do you incorporate Ss voice into the discussion at conference time?
missreed
- Moderator
Nov 2 @ 8:31 PM EDT
How can Ts set up positive communication BEFORE a conference is needed!
#mdeschat
MelissaSTuttle
Nov 2 @ 8:31 PM EDT
You need to know your families so you know how to approach conferences.
#relationshipsfirst
#mdeschat
AllieMcLamb
Nov 2 @ 8:32 PM EDT
What grade did you use student led conferences in?
#mdeschat
In reply to @MelissaSTuttle
principal64
- Moderator
Nov 2 @ 8:33 PM EDT
Student voice in conferences? Take time to have the students leave a note for their parents or a folder with work they're proud of
#mdeschat
AllieMcLamb
Nov 2 @ 8:34 PM EDT
I've heard of teachers making sure to call parents the first couple weeks of school to share all the good things they are doing!
#mdeschat
In reply to @missreed, @mdeschat
missreed
- Moderator
Nov 2 @ 8:34 PM EDT
A meet-up around the holidays and even before school starts is a great idea to build community!
#mdeschat
missreed
- Moderator
Nov 2 @ 8:31 PM EDT
How can Ts set up positive communication BEFORE a conference is needed!
#mdeschat
principal64
- Moderator
Nov 2 @ 8:34 PM EDT
Positive communication before conferences? Notes, phone calls, emails all help
#mdeschat
AllieMcLamb
Nov 2 @ 8:35 PM EDT
I agree, I think that with some modifications it would be possible and would benefit our younger students!
#mdeschat
In reply to @MelissaSTuttle
missreed
- Moderator
Nov 2 @ 8:36 PM EDT
Yes! I teach at the HS level and made phone calls to all the students in my class and caseload! It was much needed!
#mdeschat
In reply to @AllieMcLamb, @mdeschat
AllieMcLamb
Nov 2 @ 8:37 PM EDT
It seems time consuming but I think it would definitely be worth it to show that we care about our students!
#mdeschat
In reply to @missreed, @mdeschat
missreed
- Moderator
Nov 2 @ 8:37 PM EDT
Truly! I love how remind has the language translation feature and scheduled messaged too!
#mdeschat
MelissaSTuttle
Nov 2 @ 8:36 PM EDT
Constant communication! I like using
@RemindHQ
bc I can send quick text sharing good stuff as it happens. Parents can also text me back.
In reply to @missreed, @RemindHQ
missreed
- Moderator
Nov 2 @ 8:38 PM EDT
#mdeschat
MelissaSTuttle
Nov 2 @ 8:37 PM EDT
I do a Christmas breakfast where families come in to just eat breakfast and hang out in our classroom.
In reply to @missreed
principal64
- Moderator
Nov 2 @ 8:38 PM EDT
What do we do about parents who won't respond to requests for conferences?
#mdeschat
AllieMcLamb
Nov 2 @ 8:39 PM EDT
Any tips for dealing with challenging parents during conferences?
#mdeschat
janercooper
Nov 2 @ 8:39 PM EDT
Genuinely positive phone calls home set the stage for reciprocal trust
#mdeschat
In reply to @missreed, @AllieMcLamb, @mdeschat
missreed
- Moderator
Nov 2 @ 8:39 PM EDT
It helped me too! When I had a negative call to make, I felt comfortable making the call!
#mdeschat
In reply to @AllieMcLamb, @mdeschat
lynda_matthew
Nov 2 @ 8:40 PM EDT
A2 Gathering a list of questions, oversee the child's homework and also getting feedback from the child.
#mdeschat
#meda5400edchat
In reply to @missreed
mdeschat
Nov 2 @ 8:41 PM EDT
https://t.co/dCf5JHLv76
#mdeschat
principal64
- Moderator
Nov 2 @ 8:42 PM EDT
Stay positive, but also be honest, be clear about how you will help the child & that you see their potential
#mdeschat
In reply to @AllieMcLamb
MelissaSTuttle
Nov 2 @ 8:42 PM EDT
Donât give up! Be persistent. But keep focus on teaching the child. Take charge of whatâs in your control.
#mdeschat
principal64
- Moderator
Nov 2 @ 8:38 PM EDT
What do we do about parents who won't respond to requests for conferences?
#mdeschat
AllieMcLamb
Nov 2 @ 8:44 PM EDT
All we can do is to keep trying and show that we are invested and that they should be too! Also try to suggest a phone conference
#mdeschat
In reply to @principal64
MelissaSTuttle
Nov 2 @ 8:44 PM EDT
Build relationships so trust is there. Makes it easier for tough talks. Keep focus on best interest for the child. Show you care.
#mdeschat
In reply to @AllieMcLamb
lynda_matthew
Nov 2 @ 8:45 PM EDT
A3 You can connect to parents with tech tools like remind, twitter, and even creating a class website for parents.
#mdeschat
#meda5400edchat
In reply to @missreed
AllieMcLamb
Nov 2 @ 8:46 PM EDT
How do you follow up with parent teacher conferences?
#mdeschat
principal64
- Moderator
Nov 2 @ 8:47 PM EDT
What happens after the conference? Is follow-up important?
#mdeschat
missreed
- Moderator
Nov 2 @ 8:47 PM EDT
Sometimes there are cultural differences on expectations of the school's role. Sometimes it's fear on the Parent's part.
#mdeschat
principal64
- Moderator
Nov 2 @ 8:38 PM EDT
What do we do about parents who won't respond to requests for conferences?
#mdeschat
principal64
- Moderator
Nov 2 @ 8:47 PM EDT
OMG, reading my mind!
#mdeschat
In reply to @AllieMcLamb
AllieMcLamb
Nov 2 @ 8:48 PM EDT
I think a note to tell the Ps it was nice to meet them is a good idea. It also gives you a chance to see if they have any other ?s
#mdeschat
In reply to @principal64
principal64
- Moderator
Nov 2 @ 8:48 PM EDT
Follow up is important, especially if you made promises to the parent, keep your commitments
#mdeschat
missreed
- Moderator
Nov 2 @ 8:49 PM EDT
The
#mdeschat
thinks follow-up is IMPORTANT! We just had 2 educators ask about follow-up after conferences!
mdeschat
Nov 2 @ 8:50 PM EDT
https://t.co/MP7Rx8QUVB
#mdeschat
jazzmeister2013
Nov 2 @ 8:51 PM EDT
Very important!
#mdeschat
In reply to @principal64
WalterReap
- Moderator
Nov 2 @ 8:51 PM EDT
We often mistake the lack of parental visibility as lack of care or support when it might be a product of negative experiences.
#mdeschat
In reply to @missreed
mdeschat
Nov 2 @ 8:52 PM EDT
Such an important point to remember
#mdeschat
In reply to @WalterReap, @missreed
missreed
- Moderator
Nov 2 @ 8:52 PM EDT
W/communication...We should also make sure to ask what the prefered communication is for each parent!
#mdeschat
mdeschat
Nov 2 @ 8:53 PM EDT
Thanks to everyone for their contributions tonight! Any final thoughts?
#mdeschat
AllieMcLamb
Nov 2 @ 8:54 PM EDT
Very true! It also might be a result of their work schedule. Just bc we don't see Ps doesn't mean they don't care
#mdeschat
In reply to @WalterReap, @missreed
principal64
- Moderator
Nov 2 @ 8:55 PM EDT
Consistent communication all year takes the pressure off of formal conferences for teachers AND parents
#mdeschat
AllieMcLamb
Nov 2 @ 8:55 PM EDT
Thanks for all of the ideas and feedback!
#mdeschat
In reply to @mdeschat
mdeschat
Nov 2 @ 8:57 PM EDT
Good night all! Have a great Friday!
#mdeschat
lynda_matthew
Nov 2 @ 8:58 PM EDT
Sending out emails to parents as a reminder and also calling them via phone can foster positive communication.
#mdeschat
#meda5400edchat
In reply to @missreed
missreed
- Moderator
Nov 2 @ 8:58 PM EDT
Thanks
#Team
! Don't forget to follow anyone new you have met!
#mdeschat
mdeschat
Nov 2 @ 8:57 PM EDT
Good night all! Have a great Friday!
#mdeschat