In most school districts, the first report card accompanied by parent-teacher conferences is fast approaching. This is a significant time in the academic year. I cannot stress enough the importance of this time. Use the report card as a data point. Have meaningful conversations with teachers. Continue to refine a plan for academic success.
Traditionally, the report card documents your student’s success in the form of a letter grade: A, B, C, D, or F. I challenge you to investigate what the letter grade reflects? How was the “B” determined? Did your child do well on tests? Are there any missing assignments? If your student is doing well, how can the teacher provide enrichment activities?
Continue to have open dialogue with your student’s teachers. Share any questions or concerns. Talk to your teacher about your child’s interests and how you think he or she learns best. For instance, maybe he or she enjoys music or tends to remember facts more readily when movement is involved. Providing the teacher with these details is invaluable. Do not shy away from sharing!
Finally, continue to work the academic plan you and your children created prior to the beginning of the school year. Are the goals still attainable? Do revisions need to be made? For example, if the plan was for your student to become better at test taking yet test taking still seems to be an issue explore new studying techniques or speak with the teacher about some test taking strategies. Do not be afraid to advocate for you children.
The Traveler Weekly 