Family Toolkit - Chapter 03 - Section 04 - English

Tips for Families

General Tips

• Talk with your child’s teachers to know how your child is doing in school.
• Ask your child’s teachers or school staff about what language assistance your child is receiving to help him or her to learn English.
• Many schools have online parent portals that parents can access to learn important information about their child and the school. Ask the school to show you how to access and use the parent portal.
• Schools have different programs for teaching English. Ask the school what programs they offer. Ask how to enroll your child.
• Your child will likely have homework each day. Help them with their homework. Have a set homework place and time. Ask your child to explain their homework to you. Make sure your child completes their homework and turns it in for credit.
• Homework help may be available. Ask your school if such help is available.
• Each student must meet the state’s graduation requirements to graduate high school with a regular high school diploma. Each grade has grade-level standards and expectations for students. Understanding these requirements will help your child be successful in school.

Tutoring

• Some schools and organizations offer before- or after-school tutoring. Some of these programs may be free.
• You may also hire a private tutor directly. They charge a fee. Look on the school’s bulletin board for notices by private tutors or ask the school staff for recommendations.
• It is important to get help early when your child begins to have trouble with a class.

Summer or Intersession Programs

• Some schools offer summer and/or intersession programs in subjects like reading and math. Ask school staff if, and when, these programs are available.
• Ask the school whether your child is eligible to attend these programs. If there are fees, ask whether financial assistance or reduced rates are available.

Advanced Classes

• Schools may offer gifted, honors, AP, and IB classes. Ask questions to understand the different classes. Ask the school to consider your child for these classes.

Online or Distance Learning

• Ask the school to provide information and instructions for accessing the remote learning website for your school/district.
• Ask if the school provides free or low cost access to computers and/or the internet.⁴²
• Ask if the school provides remote learning resources that do not require an internet connection.
• Public libraries may provide free access to computers and/or the internet.
• Fast food restaurants, coffee shops, and other public places may have free internet.
• Ask the school about online courses. Does the school provide access to online content courses, i.e., math, science, and social studies for students? Does the school provide access to online English language courses for students and/or families?

^{42 The Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC’s) Emergency Broadband Benefit Program (EBB Program) is a temporary federal program that launched on May 12, 2021, to help eligible households pay for internet service during the pandemic. For students whose families are struggling to afford their monthly internet service, this program may be able to help. The Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) administers the EBB Program under the direction of the FCC.}