GENERAL TIPS FOR WORKING WITH SCHOOLS

No matter what the setting or how well your child is doing in school, there are certain things parents, guardians, and advocates can do to ensure their children’s rights are protected and build good relationships with the school administrators and teachers who work with their children.

·        Put it in writing.  If you make a request (for a meeting or services), do it in writing and keep a copy of the letter for your records.  If you have a phone conversation with a teacher or principal, write down notes about what you discussed, and, if possible, send a letter to the school confirming what was discussed.

·        Keep good records.  Get a binder, file folder, or box and keep all records (report cards, letters from school, student handbooks, evaluations, etc.) in one place.  If something happens in fifth grade, it is important to be able to look back and see how what has happened in the past may have affected the situation.

·        Take someone with you.  Very often there are people in the community who help parents in dealing with the school.  Especially if there is a problem that made it necessary for you to meet with teachers or the principal, it is a good idea to bring someone with you to the meeting or hearing (tell the school in advance that you will be bringing the person).  At most meetings, there will be several school employees present, so it may help you feel more comfortable to not be alone.  Also, there will be someone to witness what happened in case there is a later dispute about what took place at the meeting.  Especially if the person is an advocate who knows the school rules, they can offer suggestions at the meeting or point out if the school is not doing what it should.  Finally, having a third-party often helps keep the meeting focused and productive.

·        Visit classes and try to meet your child’s teachers.  It helps to see firsthand what your child is experiencing every day.  Most schools allow parent visits to the classroom.  Teachers generally know better than anyone where your child’s academic strengths and weaknesses lie.  Getting to know them can help you understand how your child is doing in school and how your child can do even better.

·        Keep up to date on your child’s assignments and progress.  Does your child have homework?  How is your child doing on tests?  If your child is struggling, you may not even know it until the grades come home.  If you ask, most teachers will provide you with status reports or updates on how your child is doing – they appreciate it when parents are involved in their child’s work.