FERPA
You have concerns that a parent may be intoxicated.
Text admin (more subtle and keeps you under the radar), worst case scenario use Walkie
A parent comes in irate. They are talking loud and a million words per minute.
-Text admin (or walkie)
-Listen intently and take notes. Sometimes situations can be de-escalated when parents feel heard (whether they're right or wrong).
-If it snowballs, don't be afraid to end conference early (ask admin for help)
A parent asks you a question that you absolutely don't have the answer to.
Let them know you'll find an answer and get back to them. Use all resources available to help (admin, learning center staff, counselor, etc)
You have concerns that a student should be on meds, but currently isn't. What can you say to parents? What can't you say?
Describe the behaviors you see (impulse control, constant movement, trouble focusing, etc).
We can't make medical suggestions or give medical advice.
Parent: "Is she hanging out with (other peer)? I know (other peer) has been struggling a lot with getting along with others. Is (other peer) pretty naughty in class?
Redirect conversation back to THEIR kid. If parent is incessant, "I'm not able to discuss info about other students", "I'm happy to talk about your kid", "I wish I were able to answer that but I can't discuss other students"
Parent: "I'm concerned, since he was little he's always struggled with social cues and transitions. I'm pretty sure he might have autism..."
Email admin or Courtney Galyon and the team will make sure to take a look ('Child Find' Law)
Parent: "We really don't like (staff member) and the way they interact with kids. Do you see that too?"
Don't divulge in internal matters. "That would be a good discussion to have with admin", or "I can't comment on that, I know those types of things are handled internally"
What items should you have handy at a conference?
-Sign-in Sheet
-Student data and work samples
-Summary sheet for parents (explain educational jargon)
-Notepad and pen
-Walkie and Cell Phone
What are absolute essential feelings you aim for parents to have as they walk out of your conference, regardless of kid or circumstances?
Please God say something along the lines of, "supported, involved in the process, an active member of the team, positive, productive, informative"... something along those lines. You are phenomenal and it will be a great night (and day - yay for elementary)!