This article discusses ideal roles for both parents and teachers in parent-teacher conferences. Parents should use a team approach, prepare questions for the teacher, and listen to what the teacher has to say. Teachers should prepare students for the conference, create a welcoming environment for parents, and plan a general outline for the…

Several suggested activities from the National Parent Teacher Association are suggested for involving parents in education. Categories discussed include: parents as participants in their children's education; parents as school volunteers and supporters; and parents as participants in decision making. (CB)

Tips for enhancing parent-teacher communications include volunteer, get to know the teacher, make an appointment before seeing the teacher, provide positive feedback, contact the teacher early with problems, suggest PTA-sponsored communications workshops, respect teachers' perspectives, express anger elsewhere, accept positive and negative…

Explains the educational rights that exist for special needs children and ways that parents can advocate to obtain appropriate services. Benefits of the Individualized Education Program (IEP) are explained as well as what to do if the parent disagrees with the IEP assessment. (GLR)