Every educator knows that parent-teacher conference scheduling can be a major challenge. You have the perfect method, the ideal timeline and then — one mom or dad calls with a major conflict. Whether it's an unexpected issue at work, an illness, or anything else, the parent needs to switch their morning conference to the afternoon, their afternoon conference in the morning or change the day completely.
Even though this may seem like a headache, it doesn't have to be. You can take the stress out of the situation completely. That is, with some creativity. And as a teacher, you have plenty of that. If you have a conflict when scheduling parent-teacher conferences, take a look at the easy ways that you can handle the situation.
Connect with a Call
While a face-to-face conference is preferable, it isn't the only option. Don't assume that the parent will only want to come to the school to talk to you. It's possible that the travel time it takes the parent to get from work (or somewhere else) is preventing them from sticking to your schedule. Ask if a phone conference would work better than an in-person meeting.
Use Technology
If the parent is not fully sold on the phone idea, suggest a video conference option. Using technology to see each other as you talk is a creative solution to a problem that's easy to overcome. You can even use a video chat to show the parent their child's school work or take them on a tour of the classroom.
Use Alternative Times
Parent-teacher conference scheduling doesn't have to mean picking a time to meet during the regular school day. Even though this is preferable for many teachers, find out if your school allows pre- or post-class options. Coming in a few minutes early to meet with a parent who works full-time (and can't leave in the middle of the day) can make everyone's day easier.
Along with before or after school options, consider a lunch-time meeting. This may meet the needs of a parent who can sneak away from the office during their mid-day lunch break.
Allow Siblings
Sometimes work isn't the scheduling problem. If the parent has to stay home to watch their baby or young child, they may need to reschedule a conference if their sitter (or spouse) fails to show up.
Give parents who are caring for other children more flexibility by allowing them to bring younger siblings to the conference. Stash a few books for toddlers or preschoolers in the room to keep the younger siblings entertained while you talk to mom or dad.
Scheduling parent-teacher conferences doesn't have to seem like a contortion act. Instead of twisted, bending or flipping your schedule around, try alternative options and get creative to meet everyone's needs.
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