Asking the right questions to get the right answers: Tips for parents to talk to teachers and administrators

By DAVID McGUIRE As a leader in education, I’ve witnessed the impact of effective communication on a child’s success. Parents, you hold the power to advocate for your children, but it all begins with knowing the right questions to ask. Here are six practical tips: three for communicating with teachers and three for administrators. To receive the right answers, you must ask the right questions. Talking to teachers Take the lead and ask about strengths: I have been part of my fair share of parent-teacher meetings. If you let the teacher lead the meeting, it will be challenging to regain control. Whether you schedule the meeting or they do, make sure you take the lead. Ask, “What do you see as my child’s strengths?” This question ensures the meeting starts positively and helps the teacher recognize your child as the beautiful person you know and have raised them to be. A positive approach aids in aligning you and the teacher on what your child excels at before delving into areas for improvement. Push for specific strategies to improve: It does not matter if your child has straight A’s, or they are struggling. You must ensure that when you ask your...