Overview |
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Parents and family members are children’s first and natural teacher. One of the most important things that contribute to the success of a student is family involvement in the educational process. Research has shown that when families are engaged in the educational process, students achieve more, stay in school longer, and have improved long-term outcomes. However, information for families can sometimes be confusing and difficult to access. Many times, family members feel overwhelmed when attempting to impact their child’s education and often become frustrated. This section includes useful information and resources for families to assist in the advocacy process. |
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Communication with Schools |
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The Louisiana Department of Education, Schools Online lists public, non-public, and private schools, as well as the district website. (Link: http://www.louisianaschools.net/resources/schools_online.aspx ).
Many schools create a handbook with pertinent information regarding school policy and procedures. Be sure to become familiar with the district Pupil Progression Plan as districts determine grading scale and promotion based on report cards.
Timely, two-way communication is imperative for schools and families to work for the benefit and success of students. Research shows that children do better in school when parents talk often with teachers and become involved in the school activities. Parent teacher communication tips give guidance for families in promoting student success. http://www.parenting-ed.org/handout3/Parental%20Involvement |
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Homework |
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Homework policy is a local decision and families should contact their school district. However, the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD) offers the Five Hallmarks for Good Homework. Information regarding the homework policy of a district should be available in a student handbook and/or online.
Homework Louisiana offers FREE online tutoring and academic resources from Tutor.com for Louisiana residents. Get help in math, science, social studies or English from a live tutor. The service can be accessed from a Louisiana public library or from your home computer from http://homeworkla.org/. |
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Family Resource Centers |
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Community Parent Training Center |
Pyramid Community Parent Resource Center is designed to support, assist and provide expertise to parents in traditionally underserved areas of New Orleans. The program provides information and training on special education and disability legislation, through workshops, newsletters, referrals, and one-to-one assistance. http://pyramidparentcenter.org/home.php |
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Families Helping Families (FHF) Centers |
Families Helping Families Centers are a coordinated network of family-driven information and referral centers across Louisiana. The services provided cover three core areas: information, referral, and peer support. Each regional center is staffed by parents of children with disabilities or adults with a disability committed to reaching out to other families. The center provides assistance at no cost for individuals with cognitive, physical, emotional and/or behavioral issues. http://www.laptic.org/fhfcenters/ |
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Louisiana Parent Training and Information Center (LaPTIC) |
Louisiana Parent Training and Information Center provides information, referral, and assistance to parents of children with disabilities, students with disabilities, educators, and other professionals through individual consultations by phone, email, and in person. LaPTIC provide training through workshops, online and self-guided training, and the LaPTIC statewide newsletter. http://www.laptic.org/index.php |
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Overview |
There are several resource centers available in the state for families of children/adults with disabilities. Many of these centers serve as a “one stop shop” for social services and resources for families. |
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People First of Louisiana |
People First of Louisiana is a self advocacy group run by people with disabilities, for people with disabilities where people learn to speak up for themselves about decisions they make. Members can connect with others in their community, across the nation and around the world and learn about their rights and responsibilities as citizens of the United States of America. http://www.peoplefirstla.org/ |
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LaTEACH, Louisiana Together Educating ALL Children |
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LaTEACH, Louisiana Together Educating ALL Children is an initiative of the Louisiana Developmental Disabilities Council (http://www.laddc.org/main/ ). LaTEACH is a grassroots advocacy organization that was created to effect systems change in education regarding inclusive education and best practice. LaTEACH promotes appropriate, inclusive education for all students. LaTEACH works to inform and gain support from parents, educators, the general public, and state leadership regarding research-based and effective practices for each student. LaTEACH members were instrumental in having the Louisiana Alternate Assessment 2 (LAA 2) exit exam for students with disabilities approved as an exit document in attaining a standard high school diploma. LaTEACH routinely sends out timely information about policy change at the State level and strives to keep its members up to date and empowered regarding school issues. LaTEACH has a Statewide Coordinator and Area Coordinators that cover Louisiana and help local members navigate the local, district and State processes that form our Louisiana educational system. For more information on LaTEACH and how to become a member please visit their website. ( www.LaTEACH.org) |
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Technology in Schools & Home |
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A Good IDEA for Louisiana! - A Guide for Parents and Students about Special Education Students |
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This manual, A Good IDEA for Louisiana!provides comprehensive information for parents and students on issues related to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act IDEA) and special education services. The material in this manual was adapted from It’s A New IDEA!, a project of The ARC of Texas and Advocacy, Inc., and from The Parent Manual drafted by the Southern Poverty Law Center’s Mississippi Youth Justice Project and Citizens for Quality Education. This adaptation is a collaborative effort between the Families Helping Families of Jefferson and the Louisiana Parent Training and Information Center. |
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Ideas for Projects |
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IEP Process and Information |
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