Middle Link

During a student-led conference, parents should:

• Offer support and encouragement throughout the conference
• Focus on your child's learning, their insights
• Trust your child's assessment
• Help set realistic goals with your child
• Focus on the big picture and not single mistakes
• Ask questions for clarification

• I am so proud of you because…!

• You really surprised me when I learned you could…!

• Tell me more about…!

• I can't wait to see your work in…!

Clarifying questions

• What I think I hear you saying is…
• You seem to be having a difficult time with…Why do you think that is?
• If you know why…is happening, what would be a possible solution?
• Tell me what is the more important thing that you learned in…
• You seem to really enjoy…Why do you think that is?
• What is one goal you have for the next…? (quarter, semester, year)
• What is your favorite time during the school day and why?
• What are some ways our family can be of help to you?

What do other parents and students have to say about student-led conferences?

Parent: "I really liked the student-led conference. It allowed us to talk to my son about his school work and what he is doing well in and what he needs help with."

Student: "My parents kept reading everything, and I couldn't get them to stop!!!"

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See an actual student-led conference at the Anchorage School District in action:

Watch a short clip showing two student-led conferences
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