Parent-Teacher Conferences

Last month we had parent-teacher conferences for all three kids. At the lab school, the parents also receive a written summary of the children that is about ten pages single spaced (!), and Quinn received a report card.

Let's start with what teacher Ayuko said about Zahra

Here are some of our favorite lines about Zahra in her summary:

"Zahra is very respectful of our school property and materials.  This is especially evident during clean up time.  She helps to carefully place materials in their correct places. "

"Zahra notices other children’s emotions, especially when they are feeling sad "

"Since Zahra is keen on noticing children who need support, she has occasionally initiated interaction with children by helping them"

These lines sum up Zahra perfectly. She is very sweet and caring, and also very clean and orderly! Ayuko also mentioned that Zahra is quiet in school, but seems to enjoy herself. She partiularly likes playing outside and in the gym, and doing cooking projects.

Now, on to Penelope.

Here are some of our favorite lines about Penelope:

"Penelope proudly talks about herself and her belongings"

"She can also independently put on her shoes, hat, pants and underwear and take them off as well."

These quotes sum up Penelope well. She is fiercely independent, and very talkative at school. She has made a lot of friends, and she also enjoys gym time, art and reading.

Both girls are hitting all their milestones well and doing everything they are supposed to for their age. Ayuko agrees with us that they should be separated into separate classrooms for next year, so that is the plan for now.

Now, on to Quinn.

We had basically the same conference we always do with Quinn. He is years ahead of grade level in all his academics. His handwriting and drawing are far below, and he shows zero interest in improving those at all. His teacher also mentioned that he is quite competitive with other children, and always wants to win. Sounds about right!

Quinn has had a great year in first grade. He listens to his teacher, and mostly gets along well with other children. His teacher mentioned at the end of the conference that she really wants us to contact her one day to tell her what he becomes, in terms of career. He has such a particular set of academic gifts (memorizing facts and maps), and she is curious how he will use those in the future.

If you ask Quinn about his favorite parts of school, he will say breakfast, lunch and P.E. 

The Syed children are lucky to go to such great schools with teachers who know them so well. Here's to a great rest of the school year!