Check out the recent press release about Special Education!
Families build community — and when they do, schools thrive. This guide helps you launch your own inclusive parent group, but first, here are some shining examples from around the district:
Huskies Helping Huskies
HHH
Let’s build connections, gain resources and learn together!Â
We meet monthly and students are welcome! Childcare will be provided. HHH meetings are for parents, families and staff to learn about Special Education, gain strategies to assist their children, ask questions, obtain resources, build community and/or share concerns that will positively impact student achievement here at Hawthorne Elementary and beyond.
This forum is open to all parents, guardians and staff members who would like to deepen their understanding of special education and foster an inclusive environment where each student can thrive.
This guide will help you start a parent-led group at your site, centered around inclusion, connection, and shared learning. Whether it’s 2 families or 20, it matters.
What’s the heart of your group?
Some common goals:
Helping parents understand IEPs or school systems
Building community for families of students with disabilities
Hosting speakers, trainings, or support nights
Creating a safe space for connection and solidarity
Write it down — it helps later when explaining it to others.
This could be:
Another parent who shares your passion
A staff member (teacher, specialist, counselor) who “gets it”
Your school principal or family engagement liaison
You don’t need a huge team — just one person can make a big difference.
Host a:
Coffee & chat after drop-off
Zoom “check-in” for parents
Resource share-out night
Topic night: “Ask an IEP Parent Anything” or “What We Wish We Knew Sooner”
Pro tip: Keep it low-pressure. Offer snacks, flexible timing, and maybe even childcare.
Use:
PeachJar or school newsletter
Flyers (we’ll link templates!)
Teacher emails
Word of mouth — ask other parents directly
Include a contact email or RSVP so folks can feel connected early.
Sometimes no one shows. Or one person comes. It’s still worth it.
Consistency builds trust. Your effort tells families: You belong here.
Flyer templates
Sample emails to staff/families
First meeting checklist
Monthly topic ideas
Childcare sign-in template