Parent-teacher conferences (PTCs) are the perfect opportunity to check on your child’s progress, get to know your children’s teachers and learn how you can better support their education. With a bit of preparation, you can ensure a productive conversation. The next parent-teacher conferences at NYC public schools are coming up in March. Teachers will typically reach out a week or so ahead to schedule a meeting time that works best for you.
March 6: Elementary schools and Pre-K Centers (evening & afternoon)
March 13: Middle schools and D75 schools (evening & afternoon)
March 20: High schools, K–12, and 6–12 schools (evening)
March 21: High schools, K–12, and 6–12 schools (afternoon)
Scheduling and translation services
All evening conferences are now conducted remotely- teachers will usually offer a Google Meet meeting option, a phone call, or even an email option. If you’re unable to meet during the scheduled times, most teachers will offer alternative days and times.
Interpretation services are available during PTCs. Just let your school know in advance, and they’ll arrange for an interpreter to assist you.
How to prepare
Before the conference, ask your child how they’re feeling about school, their favorite subjects, and any challenges they’re facing. This will give you valuable insights and help you address specific concerns with the teacher.
Time flies during these meetings, so it’s smart to jot down your questions beforehand. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- How is my child performing academically?
- Are they participating in class activities?
- How do they interact with classmates?
- What can we do at home to support their learning?
Having a list ensures you cover all your bases without forgetting anything important. Remember, you’re the expert on your child. If there’s something happening at home—like a new sibling, a recent move, or anything else—that might affect their school life, let the teacher know. This context can help them provide better support in the classroom.
Stay in the Loop
Don’t wait until parent-teacher conferences to find out about missing assignments or low grades. Monitor your child’s academic progress, attendance, and more through the NYC Schools Account. Some teachers use other platforms, like Google Classroom, to update students’ progress. Also, make sure your contact information is up to date to ensure you receive all school communications promptly.
Follow Up
After the conference, discuss the teacher’s feedback with your child. Celebrate their successes and work together on any areas that need improvement. Keeping the lines of communication open between you, your child, and their teacher sets the stage for a successful school year.
For more tips and detailed information, check out the NYC Department of Education’s Parent-Teacher Conferences page.
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