Rockford Public Schools hosts academies for parents

Staff Report

Rockford Public Schools is hosting several academies designed to engage parents in the educational process and help children become better students.

- Successful Transitions for Children with Special Needs: Guest speakers will discuss the challenges that students with autism face as they transition at school and provide tips on how to make those changes go as smoothly as possible. Parents will receive a checklist to help them prepare for change, such as when their child switches schools or graduates.

Program time/location: 4-6 p.m., Thursday, April 28 at West Middle School, 1900 N. Rockton Ave.

- Celebrating Our Children—Informing, Educating and Training Ourselves: This is an all-day session that gives parents an opportunity to set the agenda, share their knowledge and discuss issues that are important to them. Conservation starters include immigration issues, the college education process and bullying. Food and childcare will be provided.

Program time/location: 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Saturday, April 30 at the Rock Valley College Stenstrom Center, 4151 Samuelson Road.

-Haskell Parent Academy: This parent workshop is designed to help parents boost student achievement, expand career and educational opportunities, and strengthen family, school and community relationships. Workshop topics include reading and math tips, healthy cooking and entrepreneurialism. Breakfast and lunch will be provided. The academy is open to parents who have students enrolled at any Rockford Public School.

Program time/location: 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Saturday, April 30 at Haskell Elementary School, 515 Maple St.

From the April 27-May 3, 2011 issue