Research shows that the quality of teacher/parent interaction is the factor that contributes most to student achievement. Here are some key points to keep in mind as a parent: Make It Positive: Teachers communicate with parents most often when the child misbehaves. Ask teachers to share positive achievements and your child’s progress regularly. Ask how you can be responsive to the strengths and needs of your child. Make It Practical: Ask and look for resources to understand the curriculum and NH’s grade-level expectations (see tinyurl.com/NHGLEs). Be specific when communicating concerns with teachers. Ask for specific suggestions about what you can do to help your child in challenging areas. Talk with your child about the learning standards and how they are tested. Make It Personal: Check the school web site for information about staff, programs and initiatives. Communicate in person, via e-mail, notes, and phone calls with any questions, concerns or praises. Ask for information about your child’s individual test scores, assessment data and samples of work. Epstein (2002) shares lessons learned on how to effectively communicate with teachers: • Introduce yourself to your child’s teachers early in the school year. Find out what the overall learning expectations are, how much homework to expect and how you can reinforce at home the lessons being taught at school. • If you cannot make a parent-teacher conference, reschedule for another date that fits your schedule. You can also ask the teacher to meet you in a more convenient place. • Check in with your child’s teacher on a regular basis. You do not need to wait until you have a concern. You can call just to discuss your child’s progress or to request that progress reports be sent home. • When you do not understand a memo, school policy or program, ask your child’s teacher to explain it. • Fill out surveys sent out by the school. Your ideas and input are important to creating a better school environment for your child. • Visit the school web site regularly to find out more about the school, events and staff. Adapted from the NM Working Together Toolkit. www.ped.state.nm.us www.cesdp.nmhu.edu     The NH Parents Make the Difference website is a collaboration between the Parent Information Center of NH and the NH Department of Education.  This website is supported with funding from the US Department of Education through the NH State PIRC grant of the Natonal PIRC program. © 2010 The Parent Information Center of NH Call PIC at 224-7005 to request a copy of this 18x24” poster. Free while supplies last.