As summer draws to a close, back-to-school preparations are underway for students and families.  The excitement of new paper and pencils and supplies means September is just around the corner for children and parents. For many parents, this back-to-school excitement is tempered with uncertainty for how the school year will unfold for their child.

For families of a student that requires additional service(s) in a school setting, being prepared for the upcoming school year involves more than just new supplies and a new outfit.

Here are some tips for you as you prepare for this new school year:

1.    Communication:
Communication with the school before the year begins is critical to know what will be in place, for both the student and the family. If this is ongoing programming from the previous school year, confirm that is happening, and the staff assigned. If the student is new to the school or school system, contact the school before September to share information, either digitally or in person. Establishing and maintaining communication is central to any student’s success, but critical for a student with additional requirements.

2.    Keep records:
When a student requires additional services, there is a ‘paper trail’ that develops depending on the complexity of the requirements. Keeping these documents organized will help parents stay organized, so get yourself a three ring binder and a hole punch in the school supplies along with some tabs. Keep any copies (always keep original copies) in the binder for easy access in discussions or meetings with staff. There may be other agencies involved, but do not assume everyone has copies of relevant documents. Some cases may require additional staff and resources, so an updated photo in the file is always a reminder of who is the focus.

3.    Do your research:
A student with additional requirements in a school setting usually falls under the category of Special Education. School Boards are required to post their Special Education Plan on their website for public access.  These are very informative documents, and parents and students should familiarize themselves with the sections that pertain to their family dynamics. For more reading on this, parents can access the Special Education section of the Education Act. Research indicates improved outcomes when parents (and youth) are actively involved and knowledgeable of their requirements. No one knows the child better, or is in a better position to advocate for them. Establish clear communication with the school, with scheduled check-ins to monitor progress and avoid potential pitfalls. Be prepared with notes and questions for any meetings, and be in agreement on the course of action to follow.

Final thoughts:

There may be times when agreement is challenging, and communication breaks down. These situations should be remediated as soon as possible, either through more formal discussions with the school/board, or through using an advocate for the student and family. This advocate can be a family friend or a professional service, depending on the need. It remains essential that the communication between the family and the school remains open and cooperative to ensure the student has every chance at success. Then September truly is an exciting time for all. If you are struggling to navigate communication in this situation, consider reaching out to us at Pathways To Hope to schedule a free consultation with myself, to see if I can be of assistance to your family.

This blog was provided by Child & Parent Education Advocate

Mike DeBruyn. Mike is a retired educator from the Grand Erie District School Board. During his career, he was a classroom teacher, special self-contained classroom teacher, learning resource teacher, special education consultant, vice principal, and principal.

Through all of those roles, his passion has always been Special Education, supporting parents and families from initial school contact through the identification (I.P.R.C.) process.

Assisting parents to be equal partners in decision making and programming for their child in a school setting is how he aims to help. His experience with the educational processes can help you navigate those systems towards better outcomes for your child.