The families of at-risk students are important stakeholders and are therefore included in planning for each IDEA program. When families are engaged in motivating their students, communication increases and shared intents are often much more attainable. Over the years, many service providers have shared how reaching just one family member can lead to others in the household re-engaging in their own educational journey and supporting each other as they work together to reach new goals.
iSOSY (Innovative Strategies for OSY and Secondary Youth)
The multiple resources developed by iSOSY to support the families of at-risk students offer insights, tips, and education. These include a wide variety of topics in the Personal Wellness Training Package, such as understanding the role of Trauma, Resilience, Mindfulness, and Responsible Decision Making. There are currently Mental Health Resource Sheets for 19 states included in that section of the program’s website. Recognizing that some at-risk students are young parents, the program offers four Parenting Life Skills Lessons.
IDRC (Identification and Recruitment Consortium)
The IDRC Families and Youth Portal offers multiple resources for families to use with their students at home. These include learning portals, language resources, and an explanation of what the Title 1/Part C (Migrant Education Program) can offer.
KSMEP (The Kansas Migrant Education Program)
The Kansas Migrant Education Program website includes a Parent/Guardian Resource page. In addition to the educational resources included in the Student Portal, there is important Kindergarten Readiness/Preschool information, a guide to understanding English Language Learner standardized tests, and an introduction to the Migrant Parent Advisory Council (MPAC). The MPAC is there to help parents become strong advocates of their children’s education and leaders in their communities.