Parent/Teacher Interviews happen twice a year, in October and April. They run in the afternoon (1:30-3:00pm) and evening (6:00-8:30pm). The day after the interviews is always a late start (9:55 am).
How do I book interviews?
One week in advance, the principal puts an announcement in the weekly email bulletin indicating when the Interview Sign-up sheets will go live. On that date, click on the link provided to schedule interviews. You will need your child’s student number or OEN and the names of their teachers in order to book. You can make a maximum of four appointments per student.
How do they work?
Interviews are held in person at the school in various classrooms and both gyms. On the day of the interviews, each teacher has a Buddy who monitors their schedule. Appointments are short (5 min). (If you need more time to discuss matters further, you can schedule a separate meeting with the teacher privately later.)
Parent Tips:
- Book early – Appointments are first come, first served. So sign up early for the widest selection of times.
- Prioritize – Before booking, prioritize which teachers are most important to meet with and make appointments with them first. Some teachers fill up quickly.
- Choose your path – Northern is a big place to get around; remember to give yourself enough time between appointments. Be sure to write down the room number for each meeting in advance and have that with you (these are noted on the on line sign up sheet).
- Be clear and concise – Start by introducing yourself and stating who your student is to ensure you are with the right teacher at the right time. Keep chit-chat to a minimum.
- Plan ahead – Use the interview to discuss anything related to your student. Some suggestions:
- Academic progress (marks, meeting expectations, etc.)
- Concerns
- How quizzes, tests, homework and assignments are going – are they on
time and done well? - How the teacher perceives your student’s level of effort, focus and
engagement - Information from home that may be impacting your student (unusual stressors, evenings or weekends that are busy, health concerns, extra-curriculars, etc.)
- Struggles you may be having with your student at home. Is the teacher experiencing any struggles with your student?
- Your student’s behaviour, focus, conduct in class
- Areas for improvement/next steps
- Be action-oriented – End the interview with an action item if one is needed. Be sure you and the teacher both know what, if any, next steps are to be taken.
- Include your student – Before attending interviews, ask your student if there is
anything they want you to discuss with the teacher. For example, do they have any comments about the teaching or communication style of the teacher, feedback about how the class is running or social issues they’d like help with? - Ask the Buddies – Having trouble finding the right room to go to? Running early or late for an appointment? They love to help!