Parent Advocacy Handbook
Resources for Parents and Guardians
Purpose
The Parent Advocacy Handbook is for parents and guardians -- a child’s first teacher and advocate. It is believed that parents and guardians should advocate and support their children’s academic, social, and emotional growth from preschool through high school, and beyond.
Information and resources within the handbook are designed to help parents and guardians:
- Learn about their rights and responsibilities as an FCPS parent or guardian.
- Learn more about what is going on in the student's school.
- Gain skills to advocate for your student at school.
- Learn more how to monitor and help your student at home.
- Find extra help and resources.
The handbook contains answers to the many questions parents may have about the school system and how they can best advocate for their student at the various stages of their school experience.
Be an advocate for your child. Know what is happening at school. Ask questions. Express your ideas, comments, and concerns. Check to see that promises made are kept.
The Parent Advocacy Handbook was created by the Minority Student Achievement Oversight Committee (MSAOC) - a Fairfax County School Board advisory committee - and produced with the generous support of the Board.
It is not intended to be, nor is it, a complete guide to all programs and practices within FCPS. In addition, information may change as policies and regulations are revised or updated. For additional, up-to-date information on FCPS programs and practices, always consult the FCPS website or speak with school or system administrators or staff.
The handbook is available in several languages:
What is an Advocate?
Information on parent rights and responsibilities, guidance on how to navigate the school system and how to advocate on behalf of your student.
Parent Advocacy Handbook: Getting Ready for Kindergarten
Information about programs and resources available for young preschool age children to help prepare them to start kindergarten.
Parent Advocacy Handbook: Elementary School (Grades K-6)
The Parent Advocacy Handbook explains how elementary school (kindergarten through sixth grade) forms the foundation for lifelong learning.
Parent Advocacy Handbook: Middle School (Grades 7-8)
The Parent Advocacy Handbook explains the factors involved in middle school as it may be the first experience a student has with multiple teachers and the team approach to instruction.
Parent Advocacy Handbook: High School Grades 9-12
High school is a time of academic and career choices for teens. They must decide whether to take regular, Honors, Academy, Advanced Placement (AP), or International Baccalaureate courses.
Parent Advocacy Handbook: Thinking Beyond High School
A goal of FCPS’ Portrait of a Graduate is to provide opportunities for emerging adults to learn skills to be successful after high school. Parents can help their student develop these skills by working with teachers and school staff. The Parent Advocacy Handbook explains how to help your student.