4. Gather Information
Once the boxes are packed and loaded, it’s Go! time. Preparing for the traditionally short amount of time frame between withdrawing and registering for school, parents have to be prepared for what’s lies ahead. Gathering information and asking the right questions will help ease a student’s transition.
- School calendar – Ask for the new school’s calendar right away. It will list important dates you need to know.
- Registration requirements – Every school is different but most schools require PCS orders, proof of residency and immunization records.
- Holiday hours – Call the new school and learn when the school will be open to register and take tour hours.
- Appropriate placement – Gifted and Talented and special needs programs often differ between schools. Understand what the school offers and how placement works for your child.
- IEP/504 – How does the new school handle new students with IEP/504 plans, documented academic struggles and/or academic discrepancies? If you are unsure of what encompasses special education, here is more information.
- Gifted Ed? What do they offer for Gifted and Talented students? Not all schools are equal when it comes to curriculum or testing.
- Peers – Does the school offer a way for your child to connect with a peers before school is back in session such as social media groups or clubs.
- Secondary students – Understand transferring credits, graduation requirements, ranking and how to determine appropriate academic placement.
- Register and tour the school as soon as possible. Bring the education binder with all your important documents; share your education binder when you register so staff can place your child accordingly.
- The Compact – Print out a copy of the Compact to bring with you when registering at the receiving school.
Here’s more: PCS Checklist for Changing Schools
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