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For Parents and Families

For Parents and Families

As a parent or family member, your biggest concern is probably what can I do to help my child with their next steps after high school? The great news is that a lot that can be done regardless of the path your child takes. The most important thing you can offer is your unconditional love and support. Figuring out what life will look like after graduation is a difficult question to answer. The answer to this question will change and that is okay. Having a plan is helpful and so is being flexible. As a parent it’s important to let your student know that they have many options and many things to consider before committing to enroll in a college, seek employment or enlist in the military. Letting them know that they should not rush and gather all information possible is critical especially if they will be the first in their families to go to college or enlist in the military.

Parents and family members, feel free to view the lists of resources under each category that applies to your student’s identity on our Resource Center page. The below resources have information directly addressing parents. Please note this is not an exhaustive list.

Resources:

  • ACT is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping people achieve education and workplace success. The ACT College and Career Planning for Students and Parents page provides many resources for students and parents to explore. Follow the ACT Parent Facebook page for resources and timely information related to both the ACT test and the college admissions process – all from a parent perspective.
  • Collegeboard is a nonprofit organization that connects students to college success and opportunity. Use Collegeboard’s For Parents and Guardians page to access resources and other helpful information for parents.
  • Counseling Services at Departments of Social Services help individuals and families recognize, understand and cope with issues and conflicts. Social workers help individuals and families by providing counseling and by helping them locate services.
  • NC Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI) is charged with implementing the state’s public-school laws for pre-kindergarten through 12th grade public schools at the direction of the State Board of Education and the Superintendent of Public Instruction.
  • NCHE: Parent Resources is a web page from the National Center for Homeless Education. They provide specific resources for parents experiencing homelessness such as Parent Brochures and information to assist parents with special needs.
  • The U.S. Department of Education: Parents provides information relevant to parents and guardians.

COVID-19 RESOURCES:

  • Building Integrated Communities (BIC) has collected a list of Spanish-language resources for immigrant residents—as well as for local governments and nonprofit/grassroots organizations working with immigrant residents—in the state of North Carolina.
  • COVID College Support connects students to resources to meet their basic needs like healthcare, housing, food, and childcare to help them navigate emergencies during the COVID-19 crisis.
  • Multilingual Coronavirus Resources are available on Orange County’s website.
  • The Student Navigator Network is a 1:1 online student referral service that connects students impacted by COVID-19 with resources and helps them apply for public benefits.