Student-led conferences

A student-led conference (or SLC) can be a magical opportunity for teachers to engage deeply with a student and their family. It typically involves a middle schooler gathering some evidence of their learning, strengths and challenges, and possibly their goals and aspirations. They assemble that evidence along with reflections into some format; many use a slideshow or PLP, but there are many possible ways – even papers in a binder or journal! Then, the teacher helps facilitate a conversation and sharing process between student, family, and teacher. Many factors help determine its success. Here are some of our favorite resources to help you.

Why Student-Led Conferences are Important

How to Prepare Families for SLCs

Examples of Student-Led Conference Implementation

What does a student-led conference look like in action?

Emmett, Lamoille Union Middle School, Hyde Park VT

Emmett's student-led conference

 

Emmett reflects on his student-led conference

 

 

Alina, Brattleboro Area Middle School, Brattleboro VT

Alina's Student-Led Conference (SLC)

 

 

 

And what do educators think of student-led conferences?

Katie Bryant, Lamoille Union Middle School

What's been your experience with student-led conferences?

 

 

Joe Rivers, Brattleboro Area Middle School

One educator's reflection on student-led conferences

 

Lori Morse, Crossett Brook Middle School

 

 

What do student-led conferences look like at your school? What could they look like?