Principal Forum - March

Pierce Terrace Elementary School (PTES) held a Principal/Parent Forum in the PTES flex lab on March 25th. Parents were invited to learn about the various aspects of education. The topic for discussion was "Help! My Child is Struggling at School. What do I do next?"

A Principal/Parent Forum is a casual gathering where parents and the principal exchange information, discuss school-related concerns, ask questions, and make comments in an effort to work together to enhance the educational experience. Robert Battey, the Principal, gave opening comments to parents and encouraged active participation in the many services available at the school for their children.

Guidance Counselor Ms. Roey and Reading Specialist Mrs. Baker discussed the three levels of tiered support given to PTES students. The tiered levels of support include academic and behavioral concerns.

Baker went on to emphasize that at PTES, we recognize and cater to the unique needs of each student. Most of the students are at tier 1 with academics, while tier 2 is for students needing additional help in areas of reading or math, with a focus on small groups. Tier 3 is available for students who require more intense support, which includes one-on-one interventions. This tiered system ensures that every child's needs are met, fostering their academic and personal growth.

Students are referred to the Student Support Team (SST) by their classroom teachers if they have an educational or behavioral concern. SST is a school-based problem-solving team that aims to reduce student underachievement and improve the quality of the general education program. It is primarily made up of general educators, such as the principal, school counselor, school psychologist, school nurse, parent, reading specialist, teacher, etc.

Ms. Pinckney, the school's speech therapist, says parents should talk to their school-aged child like a mini adult to increase vocabulary and sound structures. Speech can be a learning activity, such as playing games with a child.

The head of the Case Studies Committee (CSC), Dr. Lenker, stated that collecting student data to see where they are in learning can be used towards each student’s concerns. C Parents are actively involved in the process.  With a diagnosis of a learning disability or other qualifying impairment, an Individualized Education Program (IEP) is created.

Closing the forum was Ms. Emory, the school nurse. She provided information that underscores the importance of parental involvement in their child's education. The role of vision, hearing, sleep, and healthy nutrition was discussed, highlighting how these factors can significantly impact a child's learning. 

PTES is a school with the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA), which offers programs for struggling students and a gifted education program. If parents in the community have any questions or concerns about education, please contact PTES.