(Columbia, SC) – School has started across the Midlands and so have headaches for not only students but also parents and advocates trying to navigate the educational system.
Hearing that message, the Columbia Urban League is sponsoring a Back-to-School Parent Leadership Conference at Brookland Banquet & Conference Center on Saturday, August 26, 2023, from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
The program is free, and lunch will be served. It is open to parents, foster parents, care givers, youth workers and advocates and others who are committed to the betterment of our children.
“We have listened to parents and students and are proactive in addressing their concerns specifically in closing the achievement gap,” said J. T. McLawhorn, president of the Columbia Urban League. “Closing the achievement gap is our number 1 priority, ensuring that our children will be successful in becoming a productive and contributing member of society, by obtaining livable income careers in a technological society. Although parents and their children have the same desire, in many cases they are not aware of the resources available through the schools. In addition, many are unable to access resources because of their inability to navigate in today’s school environment due to security and other restrictions. We are bringing the providers of the resources together face to face with the parents and advocates. Then they can work together.”
Topics for this event will include Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and 504 Accommodation Plans for students with disabilities, Healthy Living, Mental Health & Stress Management, Financial Literacy, Tutoring, and Education Laws.
School supplies will be provided by Walmart.
For more information contact: James T. McLawhorn, Jr. at 803-929-1040 or Juanita Dean- Bates 803-929-1041/803-665-8047.
