The Parent Information Center (2008)

Booklet published by The Parent Information Center and funded by the NH department of education about the basic aspects of RtI. Provides a brief description of the three tiers. Discusses some key components of RtI such as universal screening, research-based interventions and progress monitoring. Includes five questions parents can ask about RtI in their schools. Offers suggestions of what parents should do if they believe their child needs special education, as well as tips for supporting what children are learning in school.

RTI_Booklet_A_Family_Guide_to_RtI.pdf

Cortiella, C. (2006)

Brief published by the National Center for Learning Disabilities as an informational overview and guide about the RtI process for parents. Explains each of the three tiers in depth and also discusses the importance of using progress monitoring to inform instruction and track academic performance. Offers two fictitious case studies of how RtI is implemented and operates at an individual student level. Also provides ten questions parents should ask about response to intervention within their own school district.

http://www.spannj.org/keychanges/education_materials09/Parent_Guide_to_RTI.pdf

Bruce, S. (2009)

Written from the perspective of a parent of three children with learning disabilities, this article outlines critical RtI issues all parents need to be aware of. The author discusses the purpose of RtI as an early preventative strategy designed to prevent referrals to special education as a result of appropriate instruction. Briefly discusses legislation on RtI under IDEA, concerns about the process, and questions parents can ask to keep them better informed about the RtI process.

http://www.wrightslaw.com/nltr/09/nl.0303.htm#1

Klotz, M., Canter, A. (2007)

This article provides background information involving key components, terminology, potential benefits, and implementation approaches to Response to Intervention. A subsection of this article discusses how parents can become involved in the RtI process and lists questions to ask their school district about RtI.

http://www.nasponline.org/resources/handouts/revisedPDFs/rtiprimer.pdf

Mellard, D. & McKnight, M., & Deshler, D.

Created by National Center on Learning Disabilities to serve as an information guide for parents regarding RtI. The guide is divided into six key topics that include: School-wide Screening, Progress Monitoring, Tiered Instruction, High Quality Research-Based Instruction and Interventions, Collaboration Among School and Staff Members, and Fidelity of Implementation. Each section concludes with a description of RtI-related terms and a series of questions parents can use to address RtI issues at their child’s school. The guide also offers short case studies from actual schools to illustrate key RtI features.

http://nrcld.org/free/downloads/ABC_of_RTI.pdf

National Research Center on Learning Disabilities (2007)

A two page document designed to help parents understand RtI as an education model that supports early identification of students considered at-risk for learning problems.

http://www.nrcld.org/resource_kit/parent/What_is_RTI2007.pdf

New York State Education Department

This pamphlet provides parents, families and others with information regarding Response to Intervention (RtI).  RtI is a process used in schools to provide well-designed instruction, closely monitor all students’ progress and provide additional instructional supports to students who are struggling. This additional help is to assist those students to keep up with learning in their classrooms, particularly in the areas of reading and math. At the end of this pamphlet, there is a reference list which provides sources for additional information for parents and websites where these resources can be found.

RtI-Parent-Guide.pdf

Mellard, D. (2009)

Delivered as a keynote presentation at the statewide Reading First Conference in May 2009, Dr. Mellard emphasizes the positive outcomes associated with school reform efforts when parents are involved. Results from a national study involving parent perceptions of RtI are presented. Lists the kinds of information schools should provide to parents regarding RtI.

Connecting_Parents_and_Response_to_Intervention.pdf

This website provides multiple sources of information regarding RtI and LD determination, many of which are written in parent-friendly language. It contains a special section that parents can reference for information on educational reform movements, such as RtI, and a suggestions regarding how parents can become actively involved in their child’s school program.

http://www.nrcld.org

The RtI Action Network provides materials and resources on effective RtI implementation. A special section for Parents and Families offer resources designed to help parents understand the key components of RtI and the specific role they can play in promoting a successful school experience for their child.

http://www.rtinetwork.org

This website offers a wealth of information and materials about products, projects and services designed to improve the lives of people with disabilities. Materials and publications are free of charge and designed to help parents understand key provisions of the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

http://www.advocacyinstitute.org

A website designed for parents, educators, advocates and others who seek information regarding special education law, education law, and advocacy for children with disabilities. Provides materials and updates on provisions embedded in IDEA 2004 and tips for parents on how to negotiate the special education maze.

http://www.wrightslaw.com