School Communication Guide for Parents
Know what you want to accomplish before you hit Send.
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Step 1: Put It in a Bucket
Ask yourself: What kind of communication is this?
❓ QUESTION
“I noticed this. Can you tell me more?”
Use this bucket when you're looking for information.
Example:“My child mentioned that reading groups recently changed. Can you tell me a little more about how the groups are currently structured?”
🔎 CLARIFICATION
“I’m not sure I understand how this is working.”
Use this when you have information, but something isn't clear.
Example:“I see extended time listed in the IEP. Could you clarify how that accommodation is being provided during classroom tests?”
💭 CONCERN
“I’m seeing a pattern that I’m concerned about.”
Use this when you've noticed something repeatedly or across more than one source.
Example:“I've noticed that homework has been taking significantly longer, and I'm also seeing similar difficulty in the work coming home. I'd like to talk about what you're seeing at school.”
👥 TEAM DISCUSSION
“I think this may need a broader conversation.”
Use this when the concern may involve your child's goals, services, accommodations, supports, placement, or another part of the educational program that may need team consideration.
Example:“We're seeing this concern across several areas and would like to discuss whether the current supports are meeting our child's needs.”
Step 2: Who Should I Contact?
Classroom/General Education TeacherStart here for questions about classroom performance, assignments, homework, routines, behavior in class, or day-to-day concerns.
Special Education Teacher/Case ManagerConsider this person for questions involving IEP goals, accommodations, specialized instruction, progress, or how supports are working across classes.
Related-Service ProviderFor questions specific to speech-language therapy, OT, PT, counseling, or another related service, the provider may be the best starting point.
School Counselor/Other Support StaffThey may be appropriate for social-emotional concerns, peer issues, school adjustment, or other areas they directly support.
CSE/IEP Team or Appropriate District ContactA broader conversation may be appropriate when your concern involves the child's overall special education program or you believe the team may need to consider changes.
Step 3: Before You Hit Send 📧
Take 30 seconds and complete these sentences:
I noticed: _______________________________
I want the school to know: _______________________________
My question or concern is: _______________________________
The person who may be best able to help is: _______________________________
After this communication, I hope to: _______________________________
💙 Advocacy with Heart,
Allison — The IDEA Ally
Helpful add-ons (free tools)
Next Steps and Resources:
The following websites are incredibly helpful when navigating the Special Education world.
Need help personalizing your letter or planning next steps? I offer one-on-one support—virtual anywhere in the U.S. and in-person across NY/NJ. Work with me.
About the Author
Allison Rosenberg Meyerson is a special education advocate with 30+ years in the classroom and as a literacy specialist. She is Orton-Gillingham Certified, a COPAA SEAT 1.0 graduate, and a Dyslexia Advocate. Based in Warwick, NY, she supports families across NY, NJ, and virtually nationwide through The IDEA Ally.
Contact:
Website www.TheIDEAAlly.com
Email Allison@theideaally.com
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