Sharon Monde, Principal, Thomas Jefferson Middle School, Arlington, VA, and Susan Holland, Director of Counseling Services, Thomas Jefferson Middle School

Resources

First – turn to the counseling department in your school – they will have additional resources to suggest.
PTA President should be another good resource to ask.
Does your school system have a parent resource center? Many do – ask!
Sometimes support groups form within schools or systems; inquire about.
In Arlington, VA, schools hold “Parent Chats” – not held in the school building, bringing the teacher(s) into the community and less formal situations for parents’ access. Good suggestion for YOUR school to sponsor!
Bilingual access – be sure your community offers bilingual access for families who are not fluent in English – ALL community constituents need access to be able to participate. Speak up in their behalf.