Communication is even more important during distance learning.
Teachers have less face time with each of their students so staying connected to your child’s teacher and case manager is even more critical—especially if there are concerns with regression or lack of progress.
What is the best approach to communication?
What steps should a parent take preparation for communicating with the school?
1. GET ORGANIZED
Review your child’s current IEP. Important areas for tracking regression or progress are present levels, baselines on goals and last progress report on goals.
Best Practice Tip: Note the annual/triennial dates on your calendar. IEP meetings must be held by those dates.
2. CREATE A LOG/TRACKING SYSTEM
Include the following areas:
- Your observations to how your child is doing (relating to the identified areas of need from their IEP and access to school/distance learning)
- How the IEP is being implemented. Include services your child is receiving (when, who) and how they are accessing and interacting with remote therapy. (Note approaches/technology used and working/not working.
Best Practice Tip: This tracking log is just for you—so choose/create whatever works best—note pad, calendar, digital notes, spreadsheets, etc.)
3. SCHEDULE
Plan on communicating regularly with your child’s case manager and/or teacher. Email (in writing) is best as you can both track and reference the conversation.
- Weekly or bi-monthly (or immediately with a timely concern).
- Discuss your observations, questions, trends and concerns.
Best Practice Tip: Regular communications gives the school the opportunity to respond immediately with solutions.
4. WHAT IF THAT ISN’T ENOUGH?
Are your emails not being answered? Is there little no change? Are new strategies not working? It might be time to call an IEP meeting.
- Request a 30-day IEP meeting. In writing (email), to your child’s case manager.
- Bring a bulleted list of your concerns to discuss with the team. Make sure your concerns are recorded in your own words (your list).
- You can record the meeting with 24 hour written notice (email).
Best Practice Tip: The meeting must be held within 30 calendar days of your written request—with exception of school holidays 5 days or longer.
Remember, Schools are responsible for your child’s learning, progress and access to their education. Your communications are important to ensure they have information they need to address issues.
See our collaboration for parent tips with Communication During Distance Learning at Triton Support Services blog or video.
How can Pacific Coast Advocates help?
More Questions? Want a free 30 minute phone consultation to discuss your concerns? Fill out our online form at www.pacificcoastadvocates.com.