CSD Special Education for Families

We understand that most parents have professional backgrounds different than educators. The purpose of this newsletter will be to provide as much information, in the simplest of terms, for our families. We are ALWAYS here to help - our goal is the same as yours - to help your child achieve in all aspects of school to the very best of their personal ability. We do this, first and foremost, TOGETHER!

Remember - any question or concern should be addressed at your child's school building - case manager, teachers, building administrator. They are looking to help in any way that they can!

Pennsylvania Parent Guide to Special Education

For more specific information in Cheltenham School District, please visit: https://www.cheltenham.org/departments/special-education

Nowadays, we hear the terms social/emotional learning, trauma informed practices, and this crazy thing called Artificial Intelligence - what impact is it, or could it have, on our education system?

See: 2025 Trends in Special Education

A parent is their child's first teacher - if, at any point, you are concerned with the development of your child, seek guidance from their pediatrician. As they get older, they may refer you to Early Intervention Services. This is a service provided through our Montgomery County Intermediate Unit - Feel free to call: 610-755-9500 - also, see their Virtual Tour here: https://youtu.be/v86NndUg34E

Child struggling in school? Does not want to attend? Teacher is constantly reaching out regarding behavior concerns? Remember, you are not alone - while the school team should be providing interventions for your child to have access to their education in all forms: academic, behavioral, social emotional, etc., you, as the parent, have the right to request an evaluation. Each school has an obligation to provide supports through their MTSS (multi-tiered systems of support) process. Schedule a meeting with your child's school team to address these concerns.

Similar to elementary school, do not hesitate to reach out to your child's school. While parent involvement has shown to decreases as students get older, it does not have to. The secondary years are full of changes from physical, psychological, peer pressure, social media, to name a few. As your child gets older, you may see many changes and it can feel overwhelming to keep up with - while IDEA says that students 14 and older are required to be invited to their IEP meetings, I would encourage you to have your child start sooner - of course, that is up to you, but even an elementary aged child has plenty to offer and it is never too ealry for them to advocate for themsleves as we guide them -

some tips to consider- https://www.understood.org/en/articles/faqs-about-having-your-child-attend-iep-meetings