A value the staff at GCCS has is to “partner with parents.” Parent – Teacher Conferences obviously give valuable opportunities to talk together, to compare notes, and to ensure that as parents and teachers we are working towards a common goal. And yet obviously this activity should not be confined to just these designated days and times but should be ongoing throughout the school year as a good working relationship between parents and their child’s teachers is vitally important.
It is obvious that a committed and competent teacher and a positive and safe classroom environment are essential for a student to flourish yet surprisingly numerous studies have indicated that the greatest factor of student success is actually the interest and involvement of the parents in their education. Interest must include asking questions beyond the usual “How was school today?” which is most often answered with the very ambiguous and yet unfortunately common reply, “fine.” Interest questions could be simple ones like, “What did you learn today in science class?” Or “What new French words can you say?” They could also go deeper like, “What was something new you learned today?” Or “What was something that challenged you?” Or “How did you experience grace today?” These kinds of questions require more thought and reflection. They also require more time.
Despite the busyness of everyday life, it is important that we take time to ask thoughtful questions about our child’s learning and also take the necessary time to hear their answers. Showing an increased interest in our child’s learning just might help motivate them to also have an increased interest in their studies which research shows will likely increase their success as a result.
