As ESE students have personalized educational plans and goals -- often referred to as an individualized educational program, or IEP -- holding a conference gives parents and teachers the opportunity to discuss a child's progress. Start the meeting with positive information about the student, such as goals that she has reached or is working towards in the classroom, before turning the conversation to areas where the child is having difficulties. Listen to the parents' thoughts and concerns, and give them time to ask questions about the ESE program. At the end of the conference, provide a written summary of the conversation, the child's learning goals and information on how to contact you with other questions and concerns.
Creating an ESE advisory board, consisting of parents, teachers and, in some cases, students, allows all parties to come together to discuss community issues and concerns, notes Broward County Schools. The advisory board schedules informational sessions on topics such as student behavior or IEP plan information, communicates its concerns and positive thoughts with school and school district staff and serves as a communication tool and resource for those with an ESE child at the school. Allow parents to take the lead on the board to foster involvement and provide support and feedback when needed.
Invite ESE parents to volunteer in the classroom or around the school to learn more about their student's day, suggests the Nottingham City Schools "Guide to Working with Parents of Children with.Special Needs." Schedule special evening events, such as an open house or student showcase, where ESE student work is displayed, for parents who work during the day to attend. Use these times with parents to focus on open communication and sharing their child's positive progress towards meeting IEP goals, saving concerns about a student's academics or behavior for a scheduled conference time.
At the beginning of the year, send home a parent handbook explaining classroom and school policies and information on how to contact you. When parents call or e-mail, respond to their concerns as soon as possible. Communicate with parents daily by sending home a short letter or guide to their child's day, such as smile or frown on a calendar. Create a classroom newsletter to update parents on class and school happenings on a weekly or monthly basis. Invite ESE students to write articles for the newsletter or have parents write an article with advice for others. According to the Nottingham City Schools Guide, this type of communication makes it easier to interact with ESE parents and encourages student achievement in special needs students.