Parashat Chayei Sarah

Picture Paul Revere, riding through the streets of Silver Spring and environs: Conferences are coming...conferences are coming!!!  I trust that you all have your schedules and marked your calendars for this coming Monday night (11/21) and/or the following Tuesday (11/29).  Conferences are designed to help parents and teachers understand the children whom they share.  Parents bring insights and impressions, as well as hard facts, as do the teachers.  When everyone listens to - and hears - each other, the children are the beneficiaries.  We recognize that there are some downsides to the process, the foremost being that of the limited time. We regret that conferences are short, but when everyone is prepared and keeps to the schedule, we can maximize their efficiency.

How to get the most out of your conference.  Please:

·         Be on time.

·         Don't take more than the allotted time, even if no one's waiting.  The teacher might need a break.

·         If you arrive late - even because of a previous late-running conference, do not extend this conference.  Others are waiting.  If you feel you need more time, reschedule.  (All our teachers are more than willing to work with you to find a better (or another) time.)

·         Shut off your cell phone.

·         Discuss only your child.

·         Don't talk about other teachers.

·         Understand that we are all on the same side - advocates for your child, and we are working in his/her best interest. 

·         Come prepared with specific questions, comments, or concerns and with paper and pen.

·         Leave your children at home.

·         Expect the teacher to know your child and address strengths as well as weaknesses.

·         Know that sometimes it's difficult for the teacher to tell  you something negative about your child - but the intent is to help him/her

·         We hope that your conferences are productive and give you additional insights into your children.

Thank you for your outstanding attendance at last Friday's Veterans Day performance and Open House. Your enthusiasm and your feedback assist us in making the MJBHA Lower School THE place to be!!!  Shabbat Shalom.