Local expert shares how parents can be prepared for parent-teacher conferences

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Spring parent-teacher conferences provide an opportunity to address a student’s academic progress before the school year ends. Judy Cohen of Lakeside Educational Services, LLC, joined us on Monday, March 3 to talk about the importance of preparation to ensure a productive discussion.

Cohen advises parents to confirm the time, date and location of the meeting and arrange childcare if necessary. She recommends treating the conference like a business meeting by preparing specific questions about academic concerns, such as test performance, reading comprehension, math difficulties or writing skills.

If interventions have not been effective, Cohen says parents or schools may request a special education evaluation if there is reasonable cause.

For students in fifth grade and older, Cohen encourages parents to bring their child to the meeting to help develop advocacy skills. She also suggests taking notes during the discussion and sharing key points with the student afterward.

To learn more about Lakeside Educational Services, click here.