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| Special Education
QUICK TIP
Feel like no one is listening when you complain about your child’s
504 services or IEP implementation? Try this -- Don't say, "I
want" or "you should". Instead say, "What
can we do to___?”.
It really does work!
COMMUNICATION & LETTERS
By Margy Davidson
Eight Critical Rules:
Good communication with your school system is a must, especially
if you or your child has a disability. It can take the form of
informal notes to the teacher, a telephone call, e-mails, or a
written letter. Here are eight rules to follow:
1. Keep a journal or folder of all communications
with your school system. Besides letters, this includes extensive
notes of all meetings and telephone calls, e-mails, and copies
of notes written to the teacher in you or your child's planner.
2. Put everything in writing. Letters document requests
and what is said in phone calls or meetings. This way, both you
and the school will be clear on what is said, by whom, and when.
3. Use a pleasant tone of voice. No matter how upset
you may be, if you stick to the facts, the school will perceive
you as a concerned parent instead of a "nutcase." And
just to be sure that the emotion is left out of your letter, sit
on it for a day or two, and then have a trusted friend read it
before you send it. After all, you catch more flies with honey
than vinegar.
4. Keep it short and to the point. State your child's
needs clearly.
5. Use a positive tone. Stress the positive aspects of
you or your child's experience and express what may work instead
of bashing what doesn't. This will help you develop a good relationship
with school personnel and you will become a better advocate.
6. Keep copies of each signed letter and note you send.
7. Get written confirmation that your letter was received.
You may need this information, especially if you disagree with
the school system about you or your child's educational program.
8. Remember -- education is a business. Treat all communications
with a professional and business-like demeanor, including complete
documentation. The school system does!
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by:SensibleNet.com
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