Congrats to two former northern Wake students who were each recently awarded $1,000 scholarships from the East Carolina University Alumni Association. The association chose juniors Anna Mitchell and Anna-Lisa Bailey.

Mitchell, a graduate of Wake Forest-Rolesville High School, is majoring in exercise physiology and mentors elementary students in Greenville.

Bailey graduated from Sanderson High School and majors in elementary education. She also is part of the ECU N.C. Teaching Fellows program.

Both are active in their communities and church.

Recipients were chosen from among 81 applicants based on their academic achievements and community service, according to a news release about the scholarship.

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Before the first meeting with the teacher is scheduled, the National PTA offers parents some advice on how to make the meeting go more smoothly.

* Make a list of topics to discuss.

* Gather input from others. For example, if your spouse cannot attend the conference, find out his or her concerns.

* Ask questions about academics and policies.

* Avoid angry or apologetic reactions to criticism of your child. Instead, ask for examples.

* Develop an action plan with the teacher to help your child improve.

* Schedule a follow-up conference and determine the best way to stay in touch.

* Discuss the conference with your child, stressing the good things mentioned and the action plan.

* Watch your child's behavior after the conference.

More tips are available at www.pta.org.