Interviews replaced with conferences
Woy Woy Public School has decided to replace regular parent-teacher interviews with three-way conferencing, following a successful trial last year.
The school decided to try conferencing because parent-teacher interviews left out the focus of the interview - the student.
"Three-way conferencing provides the opportunity for students to evaluate their own progress in the form of a written report and then communicate directly to parents in an interview situation," said school principal Mr Warwick Hannon.
"In doing so the students are able to become responsible for reporting how well they are doing at school, learn to communicate effectively, become accountable for their work and behaviour, and develop organisational and leadership skills.
"On a confirmed date, students will greet their parents at the classroom and following a set agenda, present their self-assessment report which will highlight achievements and identify any areas of weakness.
"Students will also explain work samples and perhaps take parents for a viewing of the classroom including their displayed work.
"The students will provide their parents with an evaluation form for the conference which can be completed later and sent to school.
"The students and parents then join the teacher who will present each child with a student progress report and discuss its contents.
"This is an opportunity for parents to display a positive interest in their childs progress and accept the child's evaluation of their own accomplishments and areas for improvements.
"By participating in the conference, parents will not only be assisting their child to develop communication skills, but also be showing their support for the child's education and the importance they place upon it."
The opportunity for a private parent-teacher interview was still available if necessary.
School newsletter, June 20