By PIC Staff
Summer is here! Of course, this is a time to relax and recharge. And it is the perfect time to reflect on the school year, organize your records, and plan for the new school year. Here are some end-of-the-year and summer tips.
Reflect on the Past Year
Review your child’s report cards, progress reports, and feedback from teachers.
- What were your child’s successes?
- What were the most challenging parts of the school year?
- What skills have they mastered and where do they need some support?
- Did they meet expected goals?
- What is the data telling you? Are they making progress?
Plan what you can do over the summer to support learning
- Meet with your child’s IEP Team and ask what is the most important skill(s) to work on over the summer
- Ask what you can do to help your child and if they have activity suggestions, book lists or even “fun” work to take home over the summer.
- Be realistic – Make a list of the top things you want your child to work on over the summer.
- Find creative ways to work on the identified skills.
Organize your child’s school records
- Most recent Individualized Education Program, Written Prior Notices, evaluations, progress reports, and report cards
- Attendance and discipline records
- Work samples
Keep a log of summer activities and plan for the upcoming year
- Write down how you think the summer went, including successes and challenges
- Document your concerns and goals for the upcoming school year
- Share with your child’s IEP Team
Remember you do not have to wait for your child’s annual IEP Team meeting or the school to schedule an IEP Team meeting. You can request a meeting at anytime including for the start of the school year to discuss your concerns, goals, and vision for the upcoming school year. PIC has a sample letter for requesting an IEP Team meeting. Remember you are an equal member of the IEP Team. Your insight into your child’s needs, strengths, and history is essential.
Resources
Sample Letters and Forms https://picnh.org/sample-letters/ Special Education Resources https://picnh.org/special-education-resources/