Principal’s Corner by Chris Dibble

 

The first round of parent-teacher conferences are finished here at Southwest Middle School. There appears to be a continuing drop-off in parents who are able or feel the need to attend these biannual meetings. We are all well aware that times are changing, and as with many traditions in the school setting, it is time to take a look at what is the best option for students, parents and teachers.

I may age myself here a bit, but I remember attending conferences with my parents, picking up my report card, going from room to room to hear a mix of good and bad news, and then heading home — or if the news was good, maybe stopping for ice cream on the way home. In my day, that was the only way to get an update on how I was doing in school. There was no software such as StudentVue, ParentVue or even email to communicate with the teachers. The only mode of communication that remains the same is the infamous call from the principal.

Here at Southwest, staff are beginning a discussion to see if it is time to refocus on what conferences should be about. If we decide that conferences should move beyond a presentation of grades and a short discussion of behaviors, what needs to change in order to better serve our students, parents and community. Conferences can be one of our best nights when parents share what they see at home while teachers share what they see at school. It is always our goal to do what is best for students, and this open line of communication is extremely helpful in reaching and meeting students at their current levels.

Speaking of effective communication, please note that the Albert Lea Area Schools welcomes ideas and feedback from parents and the community. Attached to every email sent from the district is a link to share ideas, concerns or even some great things you are seeing from any school. The email address is WeListen@alschools.org and any submission will be routed to the appropriate person or department.

Have a great Tiger day, and always expect the best!

Chris Dibble is the principal of Southwest Middle School.