*Pro Tips - Having gone through MANY conferences in this format as a parent myself - here are some things to know ahead of time.

1) Different in comparison to elementary conferences - these conferences aren't mandatory. However, they are a great way to connect with those teachers you may need to speak with.

2) Make a plan ahead of time. It will probably be impossible to meet with every single teacher your student has. Rank them in order. Pick the 2 or 3 "must-see" teachers so you know where to focus your energy. (Think lines at the amusement park - which rides are "must rides" vs. "would be good to ride")

3) Math is always the longest line. Always... Without fail...

4) If the conversation is going to take longer than 5-7 minutes - I ask that you make an appointment with the teacher at another time. 5-7 minutes is a great time for clarification and understanding but not enough time to resolve major issues.

5) Don't forget those elective teachers! Typically, the core teacher area is PACKED and if you go to the room where the elective teachers are stationed - tumbleweeds are blowing through. Elective teachers are people too - show them the love!

6) Special education teachers are available. If your student is receiving support from our special education department - please feel free to stop by the media center and have a conversation.

7) It's a bit of a gamble on when to come. Typically, the first night has larger crowds. If the 2nd night is a possibility - give it a thought. The event runs from 4:30 - 8:00p on both nights.. Here's a straight honest statement - 7:45pm is a BAD time to show up wanting to visit with all the teachers. Remember - teachers will have been at work for over 12 hours at that point and things get a bit hazy...

Please access the Parent Portal to identify your child’s classes and teachers. While in the portal you can view grade and attendance information that can help guide the conversation with the teachers. If you do not have a Parent Portal account, please go to the Edmond Public Schools website (www.edmondschools.net) and click on the Parent Portal tab to learn how to establish an account.

A common question we get is in regard to having your Heartland student join you for these conferences. I would say that is student specific. They can certainly attend. If you feel you can have an honest conversation with them present - go for it. If you need to get the scoop and it would be easier if they weren't here - that works too... Your choice completely.

Heartland Families,

Tuesday is Heartland’s Give Back Day at Hidalgo’s!

https://hidalgosrestaurant.com

New for Heartland are BASKETBALL SHIRTS! Preorder yours through October 18. These will be delivered in November before basketball games begin.

https://bit.ly/3ydrnxl

We have a stocked shop, so be sure and check it out!

https://bit.ly/Thunderhawkshop

Keep up with HPO information straight to your phone and join REMIND.

Please let us know if you are interested in volunteering.

https://bit.ly/hpovolunteer

Please keep in touch with the HPO!

https://bit.ly/AllThingsHPO

Make a direct contribution to HPO without selling anything. 100% of the proceeds goes to Heartland Parent Organization. We are a 501(c)3 and all donations are tax deductible. We can provide you with a tax receipt.

Donate here:

https://bit.ly/HPOCampaign

Volunteer Here:

Keep watch on this Linktree for all things HPO, including signups for volunteer opportunities, including volleyball concessions. We have a volleyball tournament coming up September 23 and 24 and we need your help!

https://linktr.ee/heartlandhpo

HPO Board:

President: Leigh Bloskovich

President-Elect: Cassie Niemann

Vice President: Trish Harrison

Treasurer: Jamila Woodard

Secretary: Belinda James

HPO Chairman:

Restaurant Nights: Jaime Clark

Staff Appreciation: Angela Spitler

Dates to Remember:

10/11 Hidalgo’s Give Back Day (11am-9pm)

10/12 Popcorn Sales $1.00 bag-sold at lunch

10/25 The Garage Give Back Night (Covell) (6-9pm)

11/15 Mitch Park Ice Skate Night

Questions? heartland.hpo@gmail.com

Thanks for your support!

Honesty - Being truthful in what I say and do

Enthusiasm - Expressing interest and excitement in what I do

Attentiveness - Concentrating on the person or task before me

Resiliency - Recovering from adversity and finding the inner strength to withstand stress

and do my best

Tolerance- Demonstrating respect for others who do not share my perspective

Leadership- Knowing the way. Going the way. Showing the way.

Accountability - Accepting responsibility for my actions

Nice- Dude. Be Nice!

Discipline- Choosing behaviors to help me reach my goals and finish strong!