Parent Teacher Conference No Show

rissable · **Parent Teacher Conference No Show** 11-22-2009, 07:34 AM

Okay, so I have a student who has potential but is pulled out for the usual..reading and math. She rarely does homework and intercepts any notes home to mom if she knows they are reporting about her misbehavior. I believe in her and her abilities but need home support. Mom did not show up for our conference (twice) and I'm stumped. It's difficult to reach her by phone, but I was going to suggest a phone conference rather than giving up. This is not a typical problem in our district, where parental involvement is quite good. Any suggestions? All are appreciated.

JENNYG · **conference** 11-22-2009, 07:47 AM

Do you work at a public or private school. Things are different in that case. I work at a private school and when we have any meeting with a parent we always try to have 2 teachers in the conference (to keep our butts covered). I know that in the public it could be one-on-one. Does this parent have an e-mail? Don't give up on speaking to the parent face to face. Maybe 3 times a charm!? But if nothing happens on the thrid meeting then try an e-mail or by phone.

teach4u22 · 11-22-2009, 07:52 AM

I would take advantage if you can reach her by phone and express your concerns, seek support at home etc. Even at that, I doubt you will get the support that you need.

Ali1973 · 11-22-2009, 07:56 AM

This is a very common problem in my school. I try a phone call and eventually involve the school counselor. Typically he has already had some sort of contact with the family in question for one reason or another and is usually able to help set up a meeting time.

COLT2 · **Reach out and touch someone** 11-27-2009, 09:47 PM

I try contacing any family member that I can reach that is listed on the emergency contact sheet. I let them know that I need to discuss the child and was having difficulty reaching mom. That usually gets results.

Lottalove · **If the phone and email** 11-28-2009, 06:54 AM

is not an option, drop a note in snail mail if you have a valid address. Little Miss needs to know she cannot intercept everything.

And try that sandwich cookie thing--say something neutral or nice (positive), mention a concern or two and end with positive--even if you have to reach or reframe a message to get a positive.