I believe that as a classroom teacher, one should promote parental involvement to the greatest extent. I may be bitter, but I just don't see how a parent would not want to be involved in such an important meeting. Parental involvement is the key for success when it comes to education. I try to keep the lines of communication open with my parents by placing a phone call at least once a month to state something positive that their child has recently done. Most parents are receptive.
Parents view about their role in their child's education affects their involvement in school.
And if not discouraged, then it surely isn't encouraged. Having only taught 1st grade during my teaching career, I am convinced from having talked with hundreds of parents that they really do care about their children regardless what we see and hear in the media. In fact, I can find no difference in the level of caring regardless race, language, or ethnicity. Parents simply care about their children and their children's education. And when the last bell rings, nearly all the teachers and administrators head back to the nice part of the city or to the suburbs.