I'll be going to Back to School Night events for my 3rd grader and 8th grader during these next couple weeks. I always look forward to the chance to introduce myself to the teachers, hear about the curriculum and see my children's rooms. While the schools are usually crowded and the time with the teachers short, I think the events give both the teachers and parents the chance to size each other up a bit. While first impressions aren't everything, they do count.

And while it's always tempting to corner the teacher to talk about my child in particular, I know that's not fair and I try to avoid doing it. I know the teacher doesn't have time to talk with me in detail and after just a week in school, she or he might not have much to tell.

The Web site greatschools.com has these suggestions for questions parents should ask at the Back to School Night events:

• What is the policy on late work and make-up work?
• How does it affect the student's grade?
•  How do absences affect the grade?
• How do I teach my son or daughter to gain independence in middle school?
•  How can I check on my son's or daughter's progress in school?
•  Do you give weekly progress reports?
•  How do I know what the homework is?
•  Is there an online homework calendar?
•  Should I call or email the teacher?
•  Are there field trips?
•  How can I check on detentions or behavior issues?
•  Is there anything you'd like me to do?
• May I volunteer in the classroom?

Do you have any other questions you think are good to ask? Any other suggestions for how to help make a successful back-to-school night?