Hello Mr Smith, this is Ms. Bennett, Shon's teacher. How are you? It's nothing to worry about but I was hoping we might be able to set up a short meeting to discuss how Shon is doing in school?
Hello. Of course, no problem. Let us know when you are available and we will try to make it.
So Shon is a very bright and humorous boy. He has such a wonderful sense of humour and is always keeping the class entertained.
Thank you. That's nice to hear.
As you can see from these test results, Shon is not performing to his usual level. His scores are not bad, however compared with last semester there is a significant decrease.
I see. We did recently move house so things have been a little hectic recently. What can we do to help Shon catch up again?
Prior to the meeting collect evidence of student academic performance and make detailed notes of what needs to be communicated to the parents.Maintain consistent and positive communication.
As you can see, we proposed spending extra time with Shon during morning work time to go through the areas he has been struggling with and to provide supplementary homework tasks. How do you feel about this?
Smile and greet the parent/guardian(s) by name. Begin with some positive news about the student before diving into the main issue of the meeting.
Shon really is a wonderful student to have in the class and we will do our best to ensure he reaches his full potential. Here are a list of websites which may be of use, some of them have practice worksheets that you can download from home. What is the best way to contact you for a follow-up chat?
That sounds great. We can follow up by email if that's ok with you?
Go through the pre-prepared meeting notes point by point and explain the issue using clear language. Refer to evidence such as assessment scores to show the parent that their child is not currently reaching their full potential.
Hello Mr Smith,I hope this email finds you well. I enjoyed our meeting and I am looking forward to working with you to help Shon reach his full learning potential. Did you find the resources useful? Please contact me if you have any further questions and shall we aim to set up another meeting in about 3 weeks time?Kind regards,Ms. Bennett
Present the pre-prepared plan of action for the student and go through each step with the parents/guardians, seeking their opinions and input at each stage. Ask questions, listen to their opinions and invite them to be a part of the decision making process.
Of course, we can do that.
That sounds like a good idea to me. Our house is a bit chaotic at the moment so it's easy to lose extra paper...would it be possible to get some online homework tasks?
Provide useful resources, and find out the best way of communicating with them about this issue. Make sure to finish on a positive note by highlighting areas of strength for that particular student.
Follow up with the parents/guardians by their chosen method of communication. Inform them they are free to contact the school any time with questions or concerns. Arrange when to have a follow up meeting.