Student Led Conferences at Thomas Haney Secondary School is an appointment-based system.
Our 2019 – 2020 student-led conference dates are:
Wednesday, October 30, 2019 (1:00 – 4:00 and 6:00 – 8:00 pm)
Thursday, April 23, 2020 (1:00 – 4:00 and 6:00 – 8:00 pm)
There are no classes for students on these dates.
Conferences should be booked on the Parent Portal. We will send out a notification on the Parent Portal when the next set of conferences are available to be booked.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Why Five minute appointments?
Feedback from other schools indicates that five minutes is sufficient and still creates enough appointments for teachers to connect with as many parents as the “drop in format”.
2. What if my son or daughter has the same teacher for two subjects, can I get more time?
In most circumstances, 5 minutes will be enough; however more time can be added. The PTC system does not let the parent adjust the time but it can be done by the system administrator. Please contact the school if you feel you will need a 10-minute appointment. There is no guarantee of this accommodation.
3. What if I cannot get an appointment?
Teachers remain committed to connecting with parents as a part of the Student Led conference process. Please feel free to e-mail teachers and ask for an update on your son or daughter. During the event the office will maintain a list for each teacher, so if you cannot email the teacher please visit the school office and we will add your name to the teacher contact list.
4. What if I lack computer or smartphone access?
If computer or smart phone access is not available parents can call the school to book appointments. Appointment bookings will close a few days prior to the Student Led Conferences as a part of the preparation process.
5. Can we still drop in looking to find a moment with a teacher?
Teachers will not be available for drop in appointments; however, office staff will be available during the event to book last minute appointments in the teachers schedules.
Tips for a successful Student Led Conference:
- Bring your child with you to the conference. It is a student led conference. The student should lead the conversation.
- Try not to book back to back appointments. Travel time between teacher and a chance to have a student parent discussion is worth the extra time in your day.
- Prepare specific questions for each Teacher / Subject in advance; take notes.
- Please support a 5 minute time limit to meet with each teacher. This allows for all parents and students to meet with teachers within the allotted time frames.
- Should you require additional time, please arrange a mutually convenient time for you and the teacher to meet.
- Ensure the school has your correct contact information such as e-mail or preferred phone number.
- Ask about teacher websites or additional contact plans.
- Follow up with your child after the conference.
- Teacher e-mail addresses are listed on the school webpage.
- The teacher advisor (TA) is the primary contact for parents and students. Please be sure to visit your TA.
Sample Handout for Student Led Conferences.