Can Technology Substitute for Conferences?
Trying to schedule a conference around a parent’s work schedule can be very frustrating for all parties.
Before you give up on the idea of a face-to-face conference, consider these ideas for connecting with parents.
• Telephones—Let parents know when you’re available to receive calls at school or if they can call you at home. If finding a place to hold a private phone conversation is a concern, this may not be the best system.
• E-mail—This method has become a great way for working parents to have regular “conversations” with their child’s teachers. If the conversation is a difficult one, you can lessen the chances of tempers rising and you have a built-in record of what was said.
• Voice mail—Having a parent leave a voice-mail message is good for sharing small bits of information. It combines the personality of a phone call with the efficiency of e-mail.
• Text messaging—If you have the technology and expertise, it can help with parent communication.