The Back to School Letter
As a mother of Black children, including one with a chronic illness, the beginning of the school year can be one filled with joy and one filled with terror. I have had wonderful experiences with schools and also had terrible ones and over the years, it has become a tradition to not only plan for the 504 meetings but also to send the BACK TO SCHOOL TEACHER LETTER.
This is a letter that I know a NUMBER of Black caregivers send. The one where we subtly say the following.
This child has a family who will be involved
I am informed and knowledgable on the needs of my child
This is a partnership
If my child clowns CALL ME
And if YOU plan on CLOWNING… KNOW THAT I AM NOT THE ONE. =)
You see as a parent in the last 15 years I have noticed the way that SOME teachers can treat children who are black, who have an illness, who don’t have a lot of money, and who they feel are “different”. I have seen this at a Predominately white institution and also at an all-Black school, and I have learned that you have to be front and center in your child’s school experience and be their biggest advocate because if not you, then who.
If you are a caregiver looking for an entry point to engage with the teachers or if you are a caregiver who has NEVER even had to think about sending an email like this. Take a look and realize, that all of our journeys are different, and understand your privilege.
THE BACK TO SCHOOL LETTER
Good Afternoon (Insert Teacher)
My name is (Insert your name) and I am the mother (Insert child), one of the incoming (insert grade and school)
I know you are in the homestretch in preparing for the school year, but I wanted to take a moment to say thank you for hosting parent orientation last night, to introduce myself and (insert other caregivers) and to tell you a little bit about (Insert child).
(Insert details about the child’s illness or needs and a few things in any school plans) (Insert any information about things that the student will have on them in class that are approved) I will meet with (Insert School Admin) and provide them with her 504 plan but I just wanted to give you all a heads up. Also, here is a link that you can use in your class if you would like something to help you recognize blood sugar highs and lows.
We look forward to a great partnership with you this year, as one of (Insert child) teachers, and encourage you to contact me or her dad anytime should any issues arise. Her dad and I are available by phone, text, or email throughout the day and we are committed to supporting (Insert Child’s Name) academic, social and emotional success.
Thank you in advance for an amazing school year and I look forward to meeting you at Parent-Teacher conferences!
All our best,
I hope this maybe reaches one T1D caregiver or Black caregiver this year and can help you on your journey this school year. I also want to let it be known that as a parent I don’t want to only stand up for my child, I want to stand up for all kids and be a support to educators because I truly respect the work and I understand it really does take a village.
Please share any and all comments that you have or any thing that you also put in your letters!