In the past two weeks, we have enjoyed
visits by two local college administrators. The first administrator was by our
invitation and the second by the first administrator's invitation because of
the first administrator's positive impression of us. And the second admin
expressed even more positive impressions. Lots of positive impressions. One of
the positive impressions of the second administrator was how the school was set
up to foster longer relationships between parents, teachers, and students. I
was happy he noticed one of the fundamental aspects to our success with
supporting our parents in the training of their children, positive and longer
relationships with teachers and their families.
Developing relationships is a process.
It takes hard work, perseverance, and time. We provide up to three years of
togetherness for the teacher, parents, and students. Time and opportunity to learn to trust each
other in the goal of educating the children. Conferences support that idea.
Essentially, conferences are the sum
of the continuous parent/teacher communications throughout the quarter. Phone
calls, face-to-face meetings, texts, and emails are all ways communication
occurs. Our staff is trained to not discuss anything important over texts or
emails with face-to-face communication being preferred. Conferences are the in
person culmination of those discussions providing time and opportunity to
cement learning goals and discuss tweaks in expectations.
As the first quarter closes and the
first conferences of the year arrive right after fall break, families and
teachers begin or renew a relationship with the face-to-face meetings we name
conferences which are so important in the lives of those we instruct.
