Parent-Teacher Conferences are taking place this week at elementary schools, providing an opportunity for parents and teachers to build partnerships focused on student success. Teachers across the district have shared advice to help parents get the most out of these meetings.
Jessica Azpeitia-Shelton, a 2nd-grade teacher at Playa del Rey Elementary, recommends that parents approach conferences with an open mind. “We’re able to use the skills we’ve accumulated over our education, professional development, and experience to support our students. Ultimately, having a partnership with parents will help us give the best educational experience possible to our students,” said Azpeitia-Shelton.
Tami Kitagawa, a 1st-grade teacher at Carol Rae Ranch Elementary, encourages parents to ask questions during their conference. She notes that asking about what students enjoy or find challenging at school can help align efforts between home and classroom. This approach allows teachers to incorporate students’ strengths into lessons and better understand factors outside school that may affect learning.
Third-grade teachers Suzanne Lunt and Sofia Bryce from Val Vista Lakes Elementary suggest that parents come prepared with specific topics or concerns. “If parents have specific concerns, they may want to just make a little list so we can make sure to cover everything during the meeting,” they said.
During the conference, parents can expect to receive detailed information about their child’s academic progress, including test scores and examples of work. These meetings are intended as a starting point for ongoing communication between families and educators throughout the year.
More information on teaching methods and curriculum in Gilbert Public Schools elementary programs is available at https://www.gilbertschools.net/Teaching-Learning.
