Nov. 2025
 

Four ways to stay involved in your daughter's academic progress mid-semester

How to partner with your daughter and her teachers to guide growth with purpose and care.

Mid-semester is a natural time to pause and reflect on how your daughter is doing—not just in her grades, but in her confidence and well-being. At Ursuline, we know that the partnership between home and school is powerful. As Parent-Teacher Conferences approach on November 18, your support and presence can make all the difference.

Here are four meaningful ways to support your daughter's academic journey right now:

1. Ask open-ended questions

Instead of “How’s school?”—which often earns a quick “Fine”—try asking questions that spark real conversation:

• What’s something you’re proud of this semester?
   
• Which class has been the most challenging so far?

Open-ended questions help you understand where she’s thriving and where she might need more support. Focus on subjects she mentions often, and ask about her study habits, workload, and how she feels about her teachers and schedule.

2. Set goals together

Goal-setting gives students ownership of their growth. Whether it’s raising a test grade, turning in assignments on time, or aiming for Honor Society requirements, goals create direction and motivation.

Help her keep the big picture in mind—but remember to balance academics with extracurriculars, friendships, and rest. A well-rounded student is a healthier, happier one.

3. Encourage her to seek support

Remind your daughter that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness. Whether it’s reaching out to a teacher, joining a study group, or connecting with a tutor, there are many paths to success.

At Ursuline, her advisor, academic counselor, and personal counselor are here to support her every step of the way. And we're here for you, too.

4. Celebrate the wins—big and small

Did she finally master that tricky math concept? Tackle a big project? Speak up in class? Celebrate it. Your recognition matters more than you know.

Positive encouragement builds confidence and reminds her that progress—not perfection—is the goal.

Your role matters

Parent-Teacher Conferences are an excellent opportunity to strengthen the bridge between school and home. But your influence begins long before the meeting—and continues long after. Just by showing up, asking questions, and offering support, you're shaping not only your daughter’s success this year but her confidence and resilience for years to come.

Share your voice

At Ursuline, learning thrives when home and school work together. As we reach the mid-semester mark, we invite parents to share ideas, feedback, and experiences to help strengthen our partnership and better support every student's growth.

➡️ Take our short Parent Poll HERE.