Great Expectations: Ten Important Questions to Ask the Teacher

by FamilyEducation Staff

It's September. Your kids are off and running. But where's the finish line? In order to help your kids have a successful school year, you need to know what is expected of them, academically, from now until June. You can find out by asking some questions. Print this list out to take with you to that first parent-teacher conference. And don't forget to take notes!

1. What skills will my child be expected to master this year in math, science, history, and English?

2. What types of projects and assignments will my child complete to help him or her learn these skills?

3. Are there challenging academic standards in place at this school, and how do they compare with other school districts?

4. What information do you use to evaluate and grade students?

5. How do you know if they're academically ready to move on to the next grade?

6. What can I do at home to complement learning in the classroom?

7. How can I be kept informed of homework assignments?

8. What if my child is a slow learner and falls behind, or is a fast learner and is bored?

9. Are summer school, tutoring, or other programs available for students who need more help?

10. Are children encouraged to think about a wide variety of career interests?