This summer, parents and caregivers have been tasked with daunting decisions that will impact the educational future of their child(ren) for at least the next year. Do they send their child(ren) for a full five days, opt for a hybrid model or leverage full remote learning. As we layer these thoughts we begin to develop our own questions.

• What is the best option?  

• Do I even have an option? 

• What should I do as a parent?  

• What is best for my family?

As a family, we had to make the decision for our two children.  We had to weigh out the pros and cons.  This included talking to our children, their grandparents, and other families to hear their views.  We made a decision which we felt was safe based on our needs.  There is no perfect solution or choice.  However, we keep reminding ourselves that no matter how much we want things to go back to “normal,” it won’t be back to life pre-pandemic anytime soon.  We know life has changed and are trying to accept what we have now.  

School districts continue to tell parents that flexibility and ability to pivot is an expectation.  However, are school districts being held accountable similarly?  When we put it into a student centered lens, it isn’t as easy as it sounds, especially if you are a student with a disability.  For the most part, all of us crave structure and routine but there are students who rely heavily on these routines for their success.  Some of these same students are the same who require special classes, supports, accommodations and modifications to guide students to increase success.  

On what was a “normal school day” these students already struggled. So what happens now?  We can’t rely on the thought that we are all playing catch up.  Students didn’t leave in the middle of March at the same line drawn in the sand.  Many students lost months of instruction, some of that being specialized in areas such as reading and math.  These same students may have needed Speech and Language, Occupational and/or Physical therapies.  Some missed or had limited access to these sessions.  

More important than ever is our ability to think outside the box and find a way to support all students, especially those with a disability.  These students need to have their IEPs followed to the greatest extent possible, which is not occurring.  We understand schools and districts are trying their best, however, we need to support our own children.  We must make sure they are provided every opportunity to obtain their goals set in the IEP and grow educationally.  How we reach these goals may look different, but we need to be transparent, open and have a plan.  We need to expect our schools to pivot.  

Additionally, parents must recognize when their child is struggling and may need an evaluation completed to determine their ability to qualify for special education or additional services.  We are here to guide in this journey, helping to answer questions and support your ability to advocate for your child. All our students deserve a chance to be successful even during this pandemic. It is difficult being the parent and the advocate, so reach out and allow us help!

#standreadytosupport