How would the conversation with Ms. Stevens alter your preparation for the meeting with Patrick and his parents? Would you, for example, request a copy of Ms. Stevens’s email notes to Patrick?

What other information would you ask her to supply? Would you, for example, want a copy of the course syllabus and a copy of Patrick’s final paper? Does the conversation with Ms. Stevens prompt you to review any specific departmental or institutional policies? For example, would you review the instructions for submitting midterm grade warnings, the policy on a student’s academic responsibility, or FERPA regulations?