Re: Reflecting on the Do's and Don'ts of Parent Teacher Interviews

Reflection on Parent Teacher Interviews 

One of the most insightful workshops I attended during the Teacher Education Conference was "Parent Teacher Interviews" led by Professor Luke Palozzi. This session provided a thorough and practical guide for navigating one of the most important, yet potentially stressful, responsibilities as a classroom teacher. Professor Palozzi broke down the structure, expectations, and strategies surrounding parent-teacher interviews, emphasizing that these meetings are not only for sharing progress but for building a supportive and collaborative relationship with families.

I learned that preparation is crucial. From gathering anecdotal notes and work samples to speaking from evidence and curriculum documents, every detail matters. I also learned that interviews should never be the first time a concern is brought up with parents. Instead, ongoing communication is key. The most impactful part for me was the reminder to stay calm, objective, and always professional—especially when dealing with aggressive, silent, or manipulative parents. I learned how body language, tone, and clear boundaries can maintain a productive environment, and how awkward silence can actually be a helpful tool when used correctly.

This learning was meaningful because it gave me a clear mental picture of what parent-teacher interviews should look like. It also helped me reframe them as a celebration of student growth rather than just a performance review. This perspective shift will help me reduce anxiety and instead focus on building trust with families.

In my future teaching practice, I plan to implement many of the strategies from this workshop. I'll ensure I come prepared with documentation, speak to the curriculum when needed, and create a warm and professional environment for parents. I'll also keep notes after every interview to reflect and improve. Most importantly, I'll remember that these meetings are not just about reporting—it's about strengthening the home-school connection.

Courtesy of Julia J @ Cohort 18 NUO