Readington Family Connection

Dear Readington Families,

As the leaves begin to change and our school year settles into its rhythm, I am delighted to welcome you to the very first edition of the Readington Family Connection Newsletter. Fall is a season of new beginnings, and I can think of no better time to launch a new way of staying connected with the families we are honored to serve.

This newsletter has three goals: to share news, resources, and partnerships. Each quarter, you'll find news from the Office of Pupil Services, including program updates, upcoming events, and important dates. You'll also find resources such as practical tips, tools, and information to support your child's learning, growth, and well-being at home and at school. Finally, we'll highlight partnerships with community organizations, parent groups, and agencies that can offer additional support to your family, along with opportunities for us to work together as a team.

At the heart of this newsletter is a simple belief: children thrive when families and schools work together. You know your child best, and your insight, questions, and involvement are invaluable. We see you as true partners in helping every student reach their full potential.

The first few months of school bring many transitions, from new classrooms and teachers to new routines and expectations. Please remember that you don't have to navigate them alone. Our team is here to listen, answer questions, and help you find the supports your child needs. You are an essential member of your child's team. If you have questions about your child's services, IEP, or 504 Plan, please reach out to your child's case manager.

I hope you find this newsletter helpful, and I welcome your feedback and ideas for future editions.

Thank you for your trust and partnership. Wishing you and your family a wonderful fall season!

In partnership,

Rebecca Burns
Director of Pupil Services

Know Your Rights: The PRISE Booklet

Every parent of a child receiving special education services in New Jersey should be familiar with Parental Rights in Special Education (PRISE), a booklet published by the New Jersey Department of Education. It explains the state and federal laws that govern special education so parents understand their rights in the process and are prepared to take an active role in their child's education.

PRISE is built on two key laws: the New Jersey Administrative Code for special education (N.J.A.C. 6A:14) and the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), which together ensure that children with disabilities receive a free, appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment. A central principle of both is that parents have the right to participate in decisions about their child's education. You are an equal member of your child's IEP team.

The booklet was recently updated. In July 2026, the NJDOE issued a revised edition that clarifies when a district may act on a proposal after providing written notice, and addresses emergent relief and settlement agreements in due process. This new version replaces all previous editions.

PRISE is also available in several languages, including Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, and Portuguese, on the NJDOE Special Education parents page (nj.gov/education/specialed/parents).

Tip: Keep a copy of PRISE in your IEP binder and review it before meetings. If any part is unclear, your child's case manager is happy to walk through it with you.

September: Setting the Stage for Success

Build predictable routines. Consistent morning, after-school, and bedtime routines help children feel secure. Visual schedules, checklists, or picture charts work well for children who benefit from seeing what comes next.

Review your child's IEP or 504 Plan. Take a fresh look at your child's goals, accommodations, and services. Knowing what's in the plan makes it easier to notice whether supports are in place and working.

Watch for transition stress. Changes in sleep, appetite, or behavior are common in the first weeks. Keep notes and share concerns with the school team early rather than waiting.

October: Checking In and Building Partnerships

Prepare for parent-teacher conferences. Write down your questions ahead of time. Useful ones include: How is my child progressing toward IEP goals? What strategies are working at school? How can I reinforce learning at home?

Celebrate awareness months. October is recognized as ADHD Awareness Month, Dyslexia Awareness Month, Down Syndrome Awareness Month, and National Bullying Prevention Month. These are great opportunities to talk with your child about differences, self-advocacy, and kindness.

Talk about friendships. Ask open-ended questions like "Who did you sit with at lunch?" or "What was the best and hardest part of your day?"

November: Reflecting, Adjusting, and Giving Thanks

Review your child's progress report. IEP progress reports are typically shared at or near the end of the first marking period. Look at whether your child is on track toward each goal. If progress seems slow, you can request a meeting to discuss adjustments. You don't need to wait for the annual review.

Prepare for the time change. Clocks fall back on November 1. Shifting bedtime gradually by 10 to 15 minutes over several days can ease the adjustment for children sensitive to schedule changes.

Practice gratitude and celebrate growth. Take time to recognize your child's progress, however small. Encourage your child to name something they're proud of or thankful for.

Tools for Your Toolbox

IEP binder or digital folder. Keep your child's IEP, evaluations, progress reports, report cards, and key correspondence in one organized place.

Communication log. Record dates, names, and summaries of conversations with school staff. It's invaluable when preparing for meetings.

Visual supports. Picture schedules, first/then boards, timers, and social stories can reduce anxiety and support independence at home.

Trusted online resources:

• Center for Parent Information and Resources (parentcenterhub.org) helps you find your state's Parent Training and Information Center.
• Understood (understood.org) offers practical articles and tools on learning and thinking differences.
• SPAN (spanadvocasy.org) provides information on special education law and advocacy.