February is a month filled with academic feedback for students. Report cards are delivered home for students enrolled in elementary school and secondary programs. Shortly after receipt, there may also be an opportunity for parent-teacher interviews to discuss results.
Report cards are an important resource to reflect on achievement, progress and areas to improve on. It’s important to make use of this important document before it gets filed away for the year.
The mid-year report card is especially helpful as there is still plenty of time to make positive changes before June.
Our team of tutors at Teachers on Call have put together the following tips for parents to review the report card and navigate next steps:
Have an Initial Read:
- Review the report card in full prior to sitting down with your child and the classroom teacher for parent-teacher interviews.
- Read the comments and identify successes and opportunities to improve on.
- Stay big picture – remember every year is different and some will be more challenging than others.
Review with Your Child:
- Your child will have a lot of insight on their report card. Ask them what they think about it. If you are able to make discussions about school part of your regular family routine during the year, it will help avoid any surprises during report card time.
- Celebrate their accomplishments and stay positive. If your child’s report card had lower marks, find areas of success and ensure they are recognized.
- Avoid comparisons with any friends or family – it’s important to stay focused on what is realistic for your child.
Make a Plan Together:
- After reviewing the report card, write down questions to ask if there is a parent-teacher conference.
- Prepare a follow-up plan with your son or daughter and think about what activities and goals you can set for the rest of the school year.
- For areas to improve on make realistic goals (even if small) and think about strategies to help improve any organizational skills.
- Work with your child to consider any additional academic support or tutoring they may require.
Should you have any questions on next steps, please feel free to consult our office in the process.
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