Resources 

PaTTAN

PaTTAN  has resources available to support schools and families as they partner in building family engagement collaborations.

The Family Engagement (FE) tab of the PaTTAN website contains additional information around:  Training Modules, Resources to Share with Families, Resource for Educators,  the FE Newsletter Archives, Research and National Standards, and SPP Indicator 8.

The Family Information tab of the PaTTAN website houses additional information around:  FAMILIES to the MAX, Upcoming Events, Resources for Families, Get Involved, The Special Education Process, and PA & National Organizations.

Cover page of Engaging Families in the IEP Process. Access the link for more information

Engaging Families in the IEP Process: A Guide for Schools

This document explores how schools can reframe the IEP process and take active steps to include families as educational partners. When families are not just involved, but actively engaged, students achieve better grades, higher test scores, and increased graduation rates.

A family-friendly explanation of each section of the IEP is included, as well as considerations and conversation starters for use at the IEP team meeting.





The FAB Process uses supplementary aids and services that expand participation and learning in a general education setting for a student with a disability. FAB is an enhancement to the former Supplementary Aides and Services (SaS) Toolkit. Check out the new FAB publication! 

Framework for Access and Belonging booklet. Access the link for more information

PaTTAN consultant, Dr. Nikole Hollins-Sims, shares how schools can effectively engage families and break down barriers for student success.


What Administrators Need to Know About Family Engagement

This two-part series for administrators will present a deep dive into Family Engagement from multiple perspectives. We will examine family engagement research, strategies, and best practices that can be implemented in a variety of different settings. Practical experiences from family members will be shared. Action steps for developing the capacity of schools and families to form meaningful and productive partnerships for improving student outcomes will be discussed.

Part 1

Part 2



Engaging families in the learning and development of children is crucial. We know the evidence suggests that children, no matter the income or background, tend to do better in school, stay in school longer, and like school more when we actively engage families. Pennsylvania has developed the Family Engagement Framework to help professionals in learning communities maximize their efforts. Sarah Holland joins PaTTANpod to present this topic.

Do you or someone you know have a child that qualifies for special education, but doesn't know where to start? This bundle includes several different publications that provide essential, comprehendible information to families who are new to special education! Included in this bundle are the following publications:

To order multiple bundles, type the quantity in the box and click the "Add to Cart" button. You can alter the quantity of individual issues by clicking "My Cart" and editing the quantity for each issue.

The Mindset Challenge: Preparing Educators for Meaningful Family Engagement Practices

This professional learning opportunity focuses on developing capacity for effective home and school partnerships focused on student academic success. This presentation will help educators and families make a mindset transition from parent involvement to family engagement. Our PD offers an inclusive and dynamic learning space for educators to learn and discuss research and best practices, it also provides practical information, tools and strategies needed for application in the field. The aim of this day of learning is to support systems change and reorganization of school family engagement efforts to connect specific student learning goals with family supported learning. 


It Can Be Done:  Creating a Dynamic Parent/Professional Partnership

This interactive workshop will explore the dynamics that can affect the relationship between a family and the professionals who serve them. We will discuss how education, culture, family interactions (ex. siblings) have an impact on both parents and professionals as they strive to provide the best care for the child with special needs. Strategies for positive collaboration will be developed.


Partners in Secondary Transition: What Families Need to Know

Family member support is integral to a youth transitioning from high school to adult life. Matters such as customized employment, entitlement vs eligibility, and exploring the option of a two or four year college, are just a few of the topics that may be explored during the transition process. During this webinar, PaTTAN consultants will introduce available resources such as the Family 1-Pager Guides and Planning for the Future Checklist to LEAs and discuss strategies for sharing them with parents and family members in supporting youth in preparing for post-secondary education, employment, and independent living. 

Strengthening Partnerships Through Two Way Communication

Effective two-way communication with families is essential for strong family-school partnerships. During this webinar, members of an LEA along with PaTTAN educational consultants will share practices and strategies they have found successful in sharing information, setting realistic goals for students, and ensuring families are well-informed, actively engaged partners in education. 

Talking to LEAs About Communicating Effectively

Families and school staff must engage in regular, two-way, meaningful communication to foster positive, collaborative partnerships between home and school. Effective communication can lead to increased student academic achievement and build positive social experiences. This webinar focuses on the communication skills at one school, as a school leader presents the efforts and outcomes of developing positive communication systems with families.