Your Child's Teachers

The teacher supports and helps your child learn. They want what is best for your child. Meeting your child's teacher is a great way to help your child have a successful school year! Imagine you're building a house. You have the wood, the nails, and the plan but, you don't know exactly how the plan works. You need to talk to the person who made the plan, right?

That person is your child's teacher.

Meeting the teacher is like looking at the house plan together. Even if your English is “not perfect," it's okay! You can still understand the important parts. Your child’s teacher is anxious to meet you so she can do the best job possible to help your child in school.

Why Meet the Teacher?

• To Help Your Child Succeed: Teachers and parents are a team! You both want your child to learn and do his or her best.

• To Learn About School: American schools are different from schools in your country. This is your chance to ask questions.

• To get to know each other: When you talk with your child's teacher, they can learn more about your child. It also helps you learn about the teacher. This makes school better for your child.

Before the Meeting:

• Write down questions: Think about what you want to know. For example:

  • "What will my child be learning this year?"

  • "How can I help my child at home?"

  • "What are the best ways to contact you?"

  • "How is my child doing in class?"

  • Is there someone who can help me understand the online tools my child and I need to use?

• Prepare information: The teacher wants to know what your child is good at and where he or she might need extra help. Think about things like:

  • If your child needs extra help with reading or math.

  • If there is anything about your child’s health the teacher needs to know.

  • If there are any things happening at home that might affect your child at school.

• Arrange for an interpreter ahead of time (if needed). If you don't speak English, ask the school if they can provide an interpreter. Many schools offer this service, but you need to ask ahead of time. 

During the Meeting:

• Be polite and respectful: Teachers work hard to help students. They love meeting with parents who care about their child’s education. A smile and a friendly "hello" go a long way.

• Listen carefully: Pay attention to what the teacher says. Take notes if you can.

• Ask your questions: Don't be afraid to ask anything! It's okay to say, "I don't understand."

• Share information: Tell the teacher about your child's strengths and needs.

• Talk about communication: Find out how the teacher prefers to communicate. Is it email, phone calls, or notes?

• Ask how to check on your child's grades: Most schools have websites where you can check and see how your child is doing in class.

School is a team effort: You, the teacher, and your child are all working together. Your involvement makes a big difference!