Parent-teacher conferences should not be an after-thought — another thing to rush to before or after work. Take the opportunity to get valuable insights into your children's strengths and the areas on which they need to work.

Here are some questions you may want to ask during parent-teacher conferences — suggested by Pennsylvania school professionals:

How well is my child understanding the concepts taught in class? How can I support my child to help him/her be successful in school?
- Instructional coach, Association of Mifflin County Educators

What kind of skills will my child learn this year and be required to master by the end of the year?
—School counselor, Beaver Falls Education Association

What are some positives you see in my child? I'd like to share a positive with my child that came from you.
—English-as-a-second-language teacher, West Chester Education Association

What are ways you challenge my child? What can I do to ensure that my child is getting the most out of his/her education?
—Elementary teacher, Erie City Education Association

What are some resources that can be used at home to provide help for my child if he/she is struggling throughout the year?
—Sixth-grade math teacher, Grove City Area Education Association

How does my child interact with his/her classmates?
—High school teacher, Laurel Highlands Education Association

How do you, the teacher, prefer to be contacted? How much homework should the students expect to see on a regular basis?
—English teacher, Northampton Education Association

Where can I find my child's assignments and curriculum online? What can I do as a parent to support my child at home?
—Middle school math teacher, Wilson Area Education Association