Back to School Covid Return - Do I need to request a transition meeting

Before I get into my answer to the question I am not an attorney, I don't play one online (not even a little bit) and the information that I am going to provide is not legal advice nor a replacement for legal advice if you need it.

Q: Do I need to request a transition meeting?

My son's school district has been able to be in person all school year. Those of us who chose to do remote/online were placed in a different "school" just for online students. My son has been online for all of 6th grade. My son will be returning to in person school next school year. This will be his first time at this middle school. Does he need a transition meeting from the online school to the in person school?

A: The quick answer is - that's up to you and the team. IDEA does not require this as a procedure, but if demands and expectations and learning environments are going to change, needs may change and it's always best to be proactive. All children are different but I would suggest that your student is also present for a meeting and tour of the school with the new teachers prior to school starting, this gives your student the knowledge of their teachers and environment and can make the first day back less scary - it has been a long time since being in person and it will be a new school. Please take into consideration that behaviors may change in the new environment, this could just be a reaction to the transition, however, a **Functional Behavioral Assessment (FBA) could be required if the behaviors are severe or present for a period of time without change. If you start having any concerns with behaviors being reported by the school, request in writing for an FBA to be conducted.

Transition back into the school environment could be anxiety inducing depending on the student, if your child is showing stressors being back, please consult with a medical professional. I wish the best for your student and a smooth transition.

**This is not a comprehensive guide but gives information on what you should be asking for and looking for in an FBA.