Help my Child Learn

You are the school’s most important education partner—the key to your child’s success.

Research shows that when families are involved at home and at school, children attend school more regularly, earn better grades, enroll in high-level programs and have higher graduation rates.

Families are the essential ingredient to helping students navigate challenges of growing up. And families who are active in their child’s learning help their schools perform better too!

Ways to Support Your Student

1. Connect early and often. Reach out to your child’s teachers at the beginning of the school year and reconnect with the teacher whenever you attend a school event.
2. Commit to communicating. Schools and teachers send messages to families in a number of ways—backpack folder, voicemail, email, newsletter, social media, portal, etc. Pay attention to these messages and ask questions or respond whenever information is unclear or you have feedback to share.
3. Stay informed. Understand what is expected of your child in terms of learning and conduct. Ask the teacher how you can support learning at home. Each day, ask your child specific questions about school, extracurricular activities and friendships. Reinforce classroom rules and positive behaviors at home.
4. Speak up. Share worries or concerns about your child’s unique needs with the teacher. Address problems quickly and trust that the school also wants what’s best for your child.
5. Get involved. Contribute your talents and skills to improving the school community. Join school committees, volunteer in the classroom or at school events, offer support to your child’s teacher, etc.
6. Seek support and enrichment opportunities. Participate in programs offered by the school, PTA or other community organizations that enhance your child’s educational experience and improve your family’s health and overall well-being.

Every child should have the opportunity to succeed, not just in the classroom, but in life.  So every time you volunteer for an event, attend a school meeting or address an issue with your school board, you help make real change happen for a better future for all children.

Talk to your children. Talk to their teachers. Know what's going on. And remember to take time to read with your child at home. You are your child's  champion!

 Advocating for special education needs is not always easy. Educate yourself on the process and best practices. There is no one path fits all solution. Finding the right path takes time and may change from time to time. But being prepared helps. And remember that partnering with teachers, administrative staff, and special education support resources is often the best approach. 

More Resources - Exceptional Children's Assistance Center 

Students  demonstrating advanced learning needs beyond the regular education setting may receive additional educational instruction designed to be more rigorous and challenging.  Academically Gifted services are offered beginning in the 3rd grade and beyond.

Students are identified for these services in a variety of ways that include both testing and referrals by teachers, parents/guardians, or community members. You can find more details on the program on this page:   GCS AIG Screening and Identification. If you'd like refer a student for evaluation, please use the form below. 

GCS Gifted Education Referral Form