Once a middle School principal herself, Kate Cassada, is now the assistant chair of University of Richmond's educational leadership and policy studies program. Cassada stresses the importance of both parents and students communicating often and early with teachers this year.
"Conversations with teachers do not have to be – and shouldn’t be - confined to a declared conference day," said Cassada. “Now more than ever, teachers will welcome conversations throughout the year about, about all aspects of success, from the academic, the social, and the emotional.”
"Listen and absorb what you are being told. Don’t hesitate to ask for clarification. Ask questions and share knowledge that helps the teacher see you and your student uniquely and help you understand their school day."
"If you leave a short, time-bound conference call feeling like you have not been able to share or hear what you hoped to discuss, by all means, say goodbye by telling the teacher how much you appreciate their time and dedication, and that you’d like to schedule a follow-up appointment to continue the discussion."
"Truly, teachers are going to want to partner with parents and guardians. Such partnership benefits students, creating the success for adolescents that teachers and parents/guardians both seek.”
Contact urnews2use@richmond.edu to connect with Cassada.
