The Karnataka Department of School Education and Literacy has decided to make parent-teacher meetings (PTMs) compulsory once every two months in all government schools across the state. The move follows the overwhelming response to Karnataka’s first-ever mega PTM, held recently to mark Children’s Day.
According to a circular issued by the department, schools must now regularly invite parents and keep them informed about their children’s academic progress, extracurricular participation, learning gaps and behavioural concerns. A structured yearly schedule will be shared, and schools have been instructed to strictly adhere to it.
Five PTMs planned every academic year
Education department officials said the aim is to conduct at least five PTMs during every academic year. The initiative is expected to strengthen coordination between teachers and parents, helping families play a more active role in their children’s education.
The state-wide mega PTM, inaugurated by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, saw strong participation from parents, even in rural and semi-urban areas where such meetings were previously rare. Officials described the response as encouraging and reflective of parents’ growing interest in engaging with schools.
Teachers welcome improved parent engagement
Teachers have acknowledged that PTMs are still a relatively new concept in government schools. Chandrakala, a head teacher at a government high school, said that earlier it was often difficult to persuade parents—especially in rural areas—to visit schools even when concerns needed to be discussed.
“After the mega PTM, most parents are happy to meet teachers and talk about their children. This interaction has built trust and openness,” she said, adding that regular meetings would help address issues early and improve learning outcomes.
Clarity awaited on meals for parents
During the mega PTM, parents were served meals prepared under the mid-day meal scheme, a gesture that was widely appreciated. However, teachers said there is no clarity yet on whether meals will continue to be served to parents during future PTMs.
Officials indicated that the primary focus of the policy is sustained parental involvement rather than one-time events. The department believes that consistent dialogue between schools and families will create a more supportive learning environment for students across Karnataka.
Education experts have welcomed the decision, calling it a significant step towards inclusive and accountable public education.