Standard 1.2: Stakeholder Collective Action

Traditional PT Conferences

Payson High School has participated in traditional Parent Teacher Conferences (PTC) for many years. We have tried a number of different strategies to increase parent participation. We have included student performances, student showcases, and even food trucks to bring in the crowds. These innovative ideas brought marginal improvements. We have determined that most parents are up-to-date with their student’s progress and grades with the help of our Student Information System (SIS) and almost constant contact with teachers via email and class websites. We have since shifted to two traditional Parent Teacher Conferences a year, one each semester. In addition to these two traditional conferences, we have added what we call mini-conferences that are available at more frequent intervals.

In order to collect data on the effectiveness of PTC, our administration sends an email to teachers requesting the attendance information for each conference. When the numbers show that processes or procedures need to be altered in order to support a better outcome, changes are implemented. Here is a sample email from the principal about parent teacher conference.

Mini-PT Conferences

Mini-Parent Teacher Conferences are held four times a year during the months of October, December, March, and May. Teachers stay beyond normal contract time and are available from 2:00-4:00 pm to meet with parents and also work with students on completing missing assignments and strengthening key concepts. The objective of these conferences is to provide more opportunities for parents and students to directly interact with each other. Teachers are encouraged to provide academic support and provide feedback regarding grades and assessments. Parents are encouraged to participate in this process with their students as well.