Parent Phone Call Talking Points
Parents respond best to other parents. Not only do they share the kinship of raising young adults,
but they are likely to feel less threatened and be more honest with someone who is a
representative of the school/music program. Having parents call other parents to answer questions
or address any concerns is the best way to ensure that you have effectively communicated with
the decision makers in the household. Remember, a child chooses what classes they want to take,
a parent chooses what classes they will take.
Directions: Ask 4-5 parents if they would be willing to reach out to parents of incoming students.
You may use more parents if you like, but it is best to choose a few parents who are polished
speakers and comfortable talking to people they have not met. Tell them that they are free to vary
from the script but that it is being provided so that they have appropriate answers to the most
common questions.
Ask them to note on the following page any parents that might need further contact or have
questions that they were unable to answer. When they are done contacting the parents, they
should return the list to you for further follow-up.
Be sure to provide the parents making the call with the parent name, student name, and
instrument. This will help the recipient of the phone call to know that their child is important.
Please review the parent call log sheet and add a new column if there is more information you
want to know. Keep in mind: you want the parent making the call to provide you with feedback,
without feeling like they are filling out a report.
Be sure to give the parents a time line for completion.
Hi, this is ____________________________ from the ___________________ High School Music.
I am sorry to disturb you at home, but I notice your child will be attending our school next year, and
I just wanted to take a moment and talk to you about the music. Do you have a minute?
Is ___________________ planning to enroll in music?
If the answer is yes:
Reaffirm the decision and ask if they have any questions about the enrollment procedures or the
organization itself.
If the answer is no:
Ask what their reasons are.
Athletics
 In most cases kids can do athletics and music unless they are playing varsity football
 The coaches and the directors work together to eliminate and address conflicts
 Most states and colleges require a fine art credit and the freshman year is usually the
easiest time to fulfill that requirement
 Many students before have juggled the two
Academic Load
 The kids in music typically fare better in all academic areas
 The kids in music work together to make sure all kids are successful
 The music kids are required to have passing grades to participate (if applicable)
 The kids in music are good academic role models who are older and have been
successful
Not Interested
 The can always drop later, but unless they are enrolled, they won’t have that option
 Mention trips/performances/new friends
 High school music is completely different than junior high music
Friendship/Social
 They will make new friends from of all grades before school even begins
 Will allow them to attend many events/places with their friends
 Surrounds them with “good kids” who are successful
Parental Thoughts
 Give your two cents about what music did for your child
 Remind them that it will absorb their “free time” and keep them occupied and busy
 Places their students in an environment that teaches work ethic, teamwork, and
character
 Is something they will remember for the rest of their lives
Closing Thoughts
 Ask if they have any questions
 Would they like more information or for the director to contact them
 Thank them for their time
Parent Name
Phone Number
Best Time To Call
Concern/Question