Recently, I modeled for a new teacher how to have a phone conference with a parent. It went beautifully. His response: “I’m so glad you did this with me. I’ve heard so many negative things about contacting parents and how it never helps. Now I see so much value in it.” Please don’t count parents out of the equation. Parent-teacher relationships are more than a common courtesy. They are the key to fully educating kids. When parents feel valued, they will value what YOU do. Make the call. Build the relationship. And your chances of bring supported will skyrocket. *Parent conferences don’t always have to be negative. Call for positive reasons, too. After all, you are discussing their most prized possession. Positivity is essential.*