Laura Hernandez & Renee Kelley

Laura Hernandez and Renee Kelley are setting an example of how technology can transform traditional parent/teacher conferences into an empowering, student-led showcase. This innovative approach not only highlights the integration of technology in the classroom but also actively involves students in their learning journey, offering a comprehensive view of their progress to their parents. Let's dive into the creative process these educators will employ next week during student-led conferences and how their students will take center stage in their own educational narrative.

The Approach. Gone are the days when parent/teacher conferences were solely conversations between adults, discussing student progress and areas for improvement. In a move to involve students directly in their educational reflection and planning, Laura and Renee have introduced a dynamic, technology-driven format for their student led conferences. Utilizing Google Slides, students are given the platform to lead the discussion, presenting their achievements, challenges, and goals in a structured and reflective manner.

The Structure of Student Presentations. Each student prepares a Google Slide deck that serves as the agenda and content of their conference presentation. The slides are carefully designed to cover several subjects such as math, reading, writing, science, and social studies. For each subject, students provide insights into what they've learned, their strengths, and the challenges they've faced. This reflective process encourages students to take ownership of their learning and articulate their thoughts clearly.

Data-Driven Discussions. A notable feature of these presentations is the incorporation of reading and math scores, linked directly from the student's Google Sheet file. This not only introduces students to data literacy but also allows for a transparent discussion about academic progress and areas requiring more focus. The inclusion of this data-driven slide emphasizes the objective assessment of student performance, making it a pivotal part of the conversation.

Reflecting on Behavior and Setting Goals. Behavior and goal setting are critical aspects of student development, and Laura and Renee have included them in the conference format. One slide is dedicated to students reflecting on their behavior, encouraging them to consider their conduct in the classroom and its impact on their learning. Another slide prompts students to discuss their accomplished goals, goals they are working towards, and a goal set for them by their teacher. This not only fosters a growth mindset but also aligns student and teacher expectations.

Engaging the Family. The concluding slide of the presentation is designed to engage family members actively. Students pose questions to their family, such as their proudest moments, goals for the remainder of the school year, and any questions they might have for the teacher. This open-ended engagement facilitates a meaningful dialogue among students, parents, and teachers, fostering a supportive learning community.

Impact: This student-led conference approach demonstrates the power of integrating technology into educational practices. It promotes transparency, encourages student accountability, and strengthens the home-school connection. Teachers can use this technology integration model to incorporate their own ideas into the student-led conference.

Final Thoughts. As we spotlight Laura and Renee, it's clear that the integration of technology into educational practices offers opportunities to enhance learning experiences. By placing students at the helm of their conferences, we empower them to take charge of their educational journey, reflect on their progress, and engage in meaningful discussions with their parents and teachers. This model not only prepares students for future academic endeavors but also for the world beyond the classroom, where self-reflection and proactive communication are invaluable skills.