As September arrives, many families find their kids anxious about going back to school.
Despite schools’ increasing attention to students’ mental health and individual learning needs, some children still require personalized support to achieve their academic, social, and emotional goals. For these families, working with a JF&CS Family Advocate to secure the right services can make all the difference.
Our process begins with parents and caregivers who sense that something is holding their child back. They may have a preschooler who is not speaking or making eye contact, or a high schooler struggling with attendance, slipping grades, and making friends. Whether the challenge involves mental health, learning, or physical disability, we help identify the barrier(s) to a child’s success, obtain accurate diagnoses, and then build a support program.
We provide direct assistance in obtaining neuropsychological testing, school evaluations and assessments, independent evaluations, 504 Plans and Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), out-of-district placements, attendance at doctor’s appointments, benefits navigation, and more.
“Kids are always changing,” says Family Advocate Joan Munnelly (pictured). “We will walk with you through each stage, make sure you’re meeting individual goals and maximizing your potential.”
