It is at this time that the connections between and among the separate subjects become clear and the universality of some skills and processes is highlighted. At the conference, the student is clearly in charge of the conversation and ready for any difficulties that may come up. With their parents and teachers, students set new goals based on the challenges they have identified. The teacher has responsibility to inform parents of the rationale and procedures for student-led conferences. An evening presentation, complete with students and parents who have participated before, can be very helpful in answering parents' questions and heading off potential problems.
Teachers help schedule the conference times and are present to greet parents.
During the conference, teachers are available to support students if needed but, for the most part, stay in the background. Of course, they are there to finalize the new goals with families at the end of the conference. Parents play an important role in this process, as well. This ability has proven valuable in high school. The first portfolio conference can be overwhelming for the student and the parent.