After nine months of surmounting academic hurdles, your son or daughter may be hoping to sprint past the end-of-the school-year finish line without looking back. If so, you’re both missing an opportunity to meet with teachers and guidance counselors to gauge progress during the past semester and ramp up for the challenges ahead. To make the most of these meetings, ask five key questions, say the people at Huntington Learning Center, a test preparation center located in Cave Creek, Arizona.
- Looking at the subjects that gave my child the most trouble, what particular learning skills need work? For most students, the first sign of trouble may be less-than-satisfactory grades. Sometimes a lack of effort is to blame. But problems with basic skills may also play a role. If your child never quite mastered the multiplication tables, higher-level mathematics would be especially difficult. Unexamined problems in reading may have led to significant challenges with spelling, comprehension, and retention of lessons in courses across the academic spectrum. Asking teachers for insight on the skills your child is lacking can provide useful guidance on the most productive type of remedial work over the summer.
- Are there hidden talents that can be tapped and nurtured? Most young people also have special aptitudes and interests that can lead to higher achievement and opportunities. Teachers who have spent a lot of time with your child can have significant insight into his or her academic gifts and potential to excel with additional support.
- What learning habits should we work on over the summer? Listening skills, time management, the ability to stay on task and respect for teachers and peers are just a few habits that have an impact on a student’s ability to complete classwork and homework and master subject matter. Teachers who have spent an entire school year with your child are usually well aware of any chronic problems your child may be facing. During the summer, you and your child can work together to address these problems in preparation for the year to come.
- What summertime learning opportunities are offered at the school or in the community? With the implementation of the No Child Left Behind education act, many school leaders are feeling increasing pressure to ensure that all students meet rigorous standards for learning and achievement. In many districts, this concern has led to broader and more intensive summer school offerings.
- What can we do as a family to foster achievement in the coming year? Learning is a year-long process that takes place both in and out of the classroom. In addition to encouraging visits to the library, museums and historical destinations, many teachers can also recommend good summertime reading lists, summer learning camps and clubs geared to students with like-minded academic interests.
It is best to schedule these meetings with your child’s teacher or counselor, so he/she has at least 20 minutes to talk with you. If schedules are too hectic, these conversations can also take place by phone or email. What’s most important is that you take the time to make contact. These meetings also offer a good opportunity to say thanks to teachers and others in the school community who have dedicated so much time and energy to your child’s success.
