Obamas Face Sasha, Malia's Parent-Teacher Conferences

(CBS/AP) Parent-teacher conferences are for all parents of school-aged children -- including those who live in the White House.

President Barack Obama and his wife, Michelle, are attending parent-teacher conferences for both of their daughters.

The Obamas left the White House in a motorcade Tuesday morning and rode to the private elementary school in suburban Maryland where 9-year-old Sasha is a student. From there, it was off to check on 12-year-old Malia, who is in middle school.

Both Obama daughters go to the exclusive Sidwell Friends School, although their age difference means they attend different campuses.

But no matter who your child is or where he or she attends school, parent-teacher conferences are an important part of getting to know how your child is doing and what is expected of him or her in class.

So, in the short time you have with your child's teacher, what should you be asking?

According to the website Family Education, there are five must-ask questions:

1. What skills and knowledge will my child be expected to master this year?

2. How will my child be evaluated?

3. What can I do to stay more involved in my child's academic progress?

4. How do you accommodate differences in learning?

5. How are older students prepared for further learning after high school?

And what should you expect as a parent from teachers? Check out this insightful article by New York State United Teachers directed at teachers on "Parent Teacher Conference Do's and Don'ts."

Among other things, the organization suggests a framework for the parent-teacher conference. Teachers, according to this site's tips, should create a welcoming environment for parents and discuss positive things about your child before issues about performance. With these tips in mind, you might better prepare yourself for what's in store at your upcoming parent-teacher conference.

What have you learned about parent-teacher conferences during your child's school years? What has worked and what hasn't? Please share your own tips and stories.