People for Education – A very useful website translated in 12 languages

In several days our children will be heading back for their second term of school. I wanted to share a wonderful website, People for Education, that I have found incredibly useful and I think you will too. People for Eucation is an independent parent-led organization, working to improve public education in Ontario's schools. Their suggestions for parents are translated in 12 languages and I think those translated tips for parents will be a real benefit to our families in St. James Town. Please see their web site. Examples include:

Special Education Tips for Parents – all students will have times when they struggle with schoolwork or with school life. But some students may need extra support from a special education program. Here are some tips of what to look for.

Parent Teacher Interviews – these interviews are held two or three times a year at the end of each term when report cards are sent home. They are opportunities for parents and teachers to talk together about how to help each child succeed in school. They are very short – usually 10 – 15 minutes. It’s important to prepare before the interview to make the best use of that short time. This tip sheet has useful suggestions to maximize the effectiveness of these important interviews.

Solving Problems at School – parents sometimes need to talk to the teacher about school work, their child’s relationship with another student or their child’s special needs. Most teachers are used to getting these kinds of calls from parents and want to help your child succeed in school. In Ontario, parents are encouraged to be key partners in their children’s education. But the system can be confusing or intimidating. Who should you talk to if you have a question or problem? This tip sheet answers these questions.

High School Courses and Choices – entering high school is an important time in your child’s education. The courses that students choose in grade 9 will have an impact on what they can study in later grades and after high school. This tip sheet is a first step to understanding those choices.