parent/teacher conferences

The end of the second term is upon us…(one week to go) and we were informed that we should invite the parents in for conferences and to see what we are doing in class as we have moved to the learning centers and have changed how we do things in class. So I sent home a letter inviting parents to come anytime in the next two weeks to observe for 30 minutes and see some of their child’s work that is in the workbook that will be sent home at the end of the year. I’ve since realized that I should have put in optimal times to come observe (as both parents who responded and came picked the times just before and after break) but you live and you learn.

So the first arrived just as the class went from random disorder but somewhat calm to complete and utter chaos. Oops. Pulled them into group time and read a story, asked some questions and went for break. Not too bad. Then talked with the parent about their child and showed her the work. Didn’t know what else to do or say…luckily it was photo time—we got the new playground equipment donated by a dutch school and we needed to send some pictures of everyone playing and the teachers and school team (like a school board) saying thank you and we love it (which we really do). My second parent was also on the school team and asked if she could stay after pictures so she wouldn’t have to come back another day. Sure thing. Though then she didn’t get to observe the chaos that is class as they were out for break but she seemed quite happy to hear about her child, see the work and look at the room. I hope when (if) the rest of the parents come in that the “conferences” go as well.