How To Be An Advocate For Your Child’s Education
It was tough to get my kindergartener on the bus that first day of school. Up until then, I had played a big role in her life. I was involved in most (if not all) of the everyday decisions. Even when she was at daycare, I would get periodic updates throughout the day.
Now she’s gone for hours and hours each day and I have very little insight into her daily life. I often wonder what’s going on at school, behind those locked doors? How can I ensure her success at school while I’m here at home or at work?
As an educator, I have the unique opportunity to pull back the curtain; to bridge the gap between school and home. I want parents, like me, to know what’s going on behind closed doors. I want families to feel empowered to advocate for their child’s education. To that end, I’ve created this guide made FOR parents BY educators. This is a no-holds-barred list of 12 items for parents who want to be advocates for their child’s success at school. It is not necessary for parents to worry about every item on this list. It is only meant to bring your attention to some items that you may have been unaware of before now.
Clearly state any concerns you may have about your child. Inquire firmly but respectfully about interventions and services.
For legal reasons, educators cannot be as direct with parents as we’d like to be. Teachers cannot come right out and tell you if they think your child has a certain diagnosis.
If a teacher broaches the subject of an intervention or testing, take this conversation seriously. What should feel like a strong recommendation may feel more like a gentle suggestion. It may require reading in between the lines because, again, legally, teachers cannot be forthcoming.
Follow up on any testing, IEP or 504 meetings. These things take time and public schools are under-resourced and under-staffed. For that reason, you’ll want to advocate for your child and make sure nothing falls through the cracks.
Assume a teacher has your child’s best interest in mind. Make your child’s teacher feel safe communicating honestly with you. Inquire with curiosity instead of accusations. Always assume the most generous interpretation.
Find opportunities to get involved. Take part in meaningful gatherings to promote school community. Volunteering for the PTA is good…but the school board is better.
Ask teachers about the school’s financial needs and fundraising. Administrators don’t want parents to know that we are struggling with resources, but…we are!
Find out about your school district's approach to teaching reading. Are they using a reading program that’s in line with the latest research on the science of reading? If they are not using a phonics-based program, rally the parents and bring the science of reading research to the school board.
Inquire about active shooter drills. Research proves that they are ineffective and traumatic for students and teachers.
Strengthen the muscle of resilience with your child. We can’t control every adult our child comes into contact with nor can we control every interaction they have. I am constantly reminding myself that it isn’t my job to protect my child from everything, it’s my job to prepare them for everything.
Do not underestimate the power of teacher appreciation. Appreciation can have a big impact on workplace satisfaction. We love handmade notes and pictures from our students.
Remember the goal: You and the teacher are working together as a team to ensure your child is successful at school.
I hope this list serves as a reminder to parents that educators are here to be a valuable resource for your family. We can work together to ensure that all of our students are thriving at home and at school.
