Let me throw this question out to teachers and parents out there -- do parent conferences really help? I mean, obviously you should be kept updated on your child's progress, but do you find that you/they can help a child change their behavior?

Actually, I have seen at least one instance where a student did pull her grades out of the toilet after the mother got heavily involved, so there can be some change. I'm just feeling pessimistic, and I feel so bad when I talk to these parents who say, "I know, I know. I'm trying. I'll talk to him again."

and Babyfras' mouth was moving the whole time. I think s/he's trying to tell us something.

that s/he is related to Iris. Because that's what Iris did.

That, and kick the belly monitor. Repeatedly.

I'm just feeling pessimistic, and I feel so bad when I talk to these parents who say, "I know, I know. I'm trying. I'll talk to him again."

I've struggled with CJ's school behavior for years and I have really appreciated the conferences. It lets me know if he has been telling me the truth about what is happening in school. It also helps me see if he is doing the same stuff at school as he does at home (sometimes yes, sometimes no). Even if I end up spending a good part of the conference making the same response you have noted above, I feel as though the teacher and I are on the same page at least and working together.

So, who wants to pitch a warm weather state for me to move to?

Note that the teens watching the Super Bowl at my house are wearing shorts and sandals. IJS [link] Well, you can't see all the girls feet, but there were sandals.

Emily, at this point a teacher conference is always bad news and I feel like I am being called to the woodshed. Yes, I am a total failure as a parent and am helpless in my efforts to make my child do his school work. Yes teacher, tell me how much I suck. When they were younger they maybe helped. I do find it very helpful when teachers stay in contact via email because it is less time consuming and still keeps me in the loop.

{{{{{Bitches}}}}} 2009 is so on The List.

I managed to get my car stuck in the snow bank on the side of the driveway while trying to back out of it.

If that's the standard for stupid, I think that covers most of us.

So, who wants to pitch a warm weather state for me to move to?

Georgia, Georgia, the whole day through
Just an old sweet song keeps Georgia on my mind.
Georgia, Georgia, a song of you
Comes as sweet and clear as moonlight through the pines.

It's 53 right now, although to be fair, I should say that it's going down to 22 tonight. No snow, though, except in the mountains.

They want him to apply for the Gifted and Talented math and language arts program for Middle School next year.

Of course they do. I'm so glad he's in a place where his awesomeness can shine.

I just dropped off Mr Peabody and then stopped at the grocery store and bought a bunch of carbs. After all, who says, "They're injecting my little dog with powerful drugs and keeping him until Friday. I must have some celery."

Even if I end up spending a good part of the conference making the same response you have noted above, I feel as though the teacher and I are on the same page at least and working together.

Well, that's good. I just fear I'm making the parents feel... well, like Laura says. Usually my parent phone calls involve some version of "Listen, there's only so much you can do. He makes his own decisions. I just wanted to keep you up to date."

I think I have to go write an email right now, in fact, and I'm dreading it. I'm not sure the mother can make the situation better, and I'm a little worried that contacting her might make it worse (which I have seen happen). All the same, she's got a right to know. So wish me luck! Now how do I phrase this...

I'm glad CJ is thriving.

Babyfras' mouth was moving the whole time. I think s/he's trying to tell us something.

S/He's asking you to swallow a rubber ball to play with.

The AAA guy was very nice and was able to get the car unstuck. I'm at Mom's and my chiropractor is rescheduled for 2.

Yay, bay Fras!

Suzi, Nicole has completely corrupted you.

{{Emily and all the teachers}} Sorry if I was too blunt. I have so much respect for teachers. I only have to deal with 2 students. You have the toughest most under appreciated job in the world. If I was in charge the teachers would have received 20 billion in bonuses, not top management of evil banks.

I'd love to have you here sj, selfishly, but that's not something I'd do to a friend. Too many hooples.