Family Connection of South Carolina recognizes the importance for families to have education and learning opportunity options, whether a return to in-person classroom instruction, hybrid options, or virtual only. We emphasize however, that the health and safety of students, teachers, school employees, families, and our community as a whole–is of utmost importance. Significant investment must come from federal and state governments to support schools in their reopening efforts, particularly those already under-resourced.

Amy Holbert, CEO of Family Connection of South Carolina notes: “We support the statement of Superintendent Spearman: ‘We cannot turn a blind eye to the health and safety of our students and staff when the spread of the virus in some of our communities is among the highest in the world. School leaders, in consultation with public health experts, are best positioned to determine how in-person operations should be carried out to fit the needs of their local community.’” 

As the need for increased resources and services continues, our communities must create new ways of interacting, learning, and connecting with each other. The disparities that existed before COVID-19 are now even greater and more pronounced, and our education system faces unprecedented challenges. Family Connection is committed to supporting students with disabilities, their families, and our schools during this time.

We cannot overlook that students with disabilities have different types of educational learning needs and their voices need to be heard. Families who have children with disabilities need to be included in the conversations around the reopening of schools.

Family Connection empowers parents with tools, training, and support to help them understand the educational system. We help families collaborate with educators to identify and provide the best support and services for their children. We are unwavering in our commitment to be the voice for families.

Family Connection has created A Parent’s Planning Tool and Checklist for School Reopening which can be reviewed and downloaded at www.familyconnectionsc.org/education