Families as Partners in Educational Decision Making

Families are essential partners in educational decision making for all students, but especially for those with intellectual or developmental disabilities. Partnership implies having reciprocal relationships with school staff that are characterized by mutual respect, a sense of trust, and a belief that each person has the best interests of the student at heart. When families and school staff have the same goals for the student, partnership can flourish. School staff who partner with families invite families to take an active role in decision-making opportunities concerning the school at large (e.g., curricula, funding allocation) and their particular student’s education (e.g., student goals, needed accommodations and modifications). School staff and families collaborate to identify goals for student learning and advancement both at school and at home. As ...