When the COVID pandemic hit in 2020, with schools closing and switching to remote learning, there were families who became more engaged in their children’s learning, as it was right in their living rooms and kitchens. Much good emerged from the new interactions; however, questions arose as to how to help children’s achievement, and families had to learn about new technology and how to navigate a new system. We know prepared families play a critical role in how well students do in school, and when everyone is engaged, everyone benefits. 

The positive outcome of engagement with schools shows that parents who are involved in students’ learning at home have more than twice the positive effect on student test scores. Let’s not throw out what we learned during COVID times; let’s recognize the benefits from it. Families and teachers continued to build trust through open and clear ongoing conversations, and respect between families and teachers grew. The upcoming November parent-teacher conferences are an effective time to continue to build the trust and respect that lead to an effective family-school partnership. 

Teachers recognize that families are their children’s first teachers and are ready to learn about what motivates their children, how they like school, what they are learning, and what they struggle with at home. Prior to the conference, ask your children about these items, so you can inform teachers accordingly. Ask your children if there is anything that they want you to talk about with their teacher. Tell your children that you and the teacher are meeting to help with better learning. Make a list of topics that you want to talk about with the teacher. 

Your child’s teacher will be prepared with test results and other information that helps inform instructional practices tailored to your child. Ask the teacher about what strategies you can employ at home to help your child to meet learning goals. Ask questions such as: what are my child’s strongest and weakest subjects? Does my child hand homework in on time? Does my child participate in class? Does my child seem happy at school? These questions will give you insight into your child’s social-emotional development. The information gained during the conference, or any plans put in place to help your child excel, should be explained to your child. 

Although conferences are normally short, parents can ask for a longer conference at which you can go into more detail. Don’t be afraid to ask for more time if you feel you need it. Making conferences an effective tool and fostering the ability to support your child’s learning at home are critical to student success. To better equip families to support student learning in math, reading, literacy, science, and social-emotional development, the Danbury Public Schools will be hosting its Family University for families of children in grades Pre-K through Grade 2 on Saturday, December 10, from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm at Rogers Park Middle School. Families will be able to register through Parent Square, the district’s communication platform, after November 15. I look forward to seeing families attend the Family University on December 10. 

Anne E. Mead, Ed. D. is the Director of Family, School & Community Partnerships for Danbury Public Schools. She can be reached at 203-830-6508 or by email at meadan@danburyu.k12.ct.us.