For upcoming conferences, teachers in my school were gently reminded that all parents should have the opportunity to meet teachers during conferences throughout the school year. This, obviously, is a great concept. But at my school, our conferences 'sell out' faster than a Led Zeppelin reunion concert.
To accommodate more parents, I'm going to try implementing student-led conferences. Researching briefly online, I found an old student-led conferences handbook from an expeditionary school in New York. While some of the procedures don't fit in with my school, I like the goals and listed expectations for students, parents and teachers.
Since my conferences are mere weeks away, I will implement an abbreviated version of the process. My students already spend time reflecting on their work, so they will do well in that area. I think the biggest challenge might be helping students lead the conferences on their own, so I'll have to allow for some rehearsal time. I also need to make sure I keep parents in the 'know.'
I'll report back after November 19 with my own reflections.
Live&Learn
