Record Keeping Folders:
What ARE they? and Why do I NEED them?
Keeping track of important school papers whether for one child or six can be an overwhelming task particularly in this new age of standards and testing. So, the staff of RI PIRC thought we would give you some ideas on the why and what of record keeping.

First, you will need seven envelopes or file folders or an accordion file for each child you have in school.
Attendance Records
Why?
Frequently being absent or late are some of the most common causes of poor academic performance. All school districts have different policies on excused or unexcused absences. Check the student handbook for these policies.
What?
Call the school and request a copy of your child’s attendance records.
Keep a record each time your child is absent from school due to illness, medical appointments, or family business.
Review your child’s attendance records throughout the school year.

Health Records
Why?
If your child has not attended school before or you are in a new school district, you will need their immunization records to enroll.
Schools may also need to know any additional medical information about ongoing health issues, such as asthma.
If your child needs to take medication at school, make an appointment with the school nurse to review the school’s health policies.
What?
Immunization records
Health records with evidence of last physical
Physician’s note on daily medications needed to be taken while in school or emergency prescriptions

Awards and Schoolwork
Why?
By keeping this type of record, children see how important school and schoolwork is to your family and can help you track their academic progress
What?
Samples of schoolwork from throughout the year in every subject
Awards

Behavior and Discipline
Why?
Keeping these records will give you a better idea of how often problems are happening, how serious they are, and how the school has tried to resolve the problems. If you believe that your child has been treated unfairly, ask for a meeting with involved school staff to discuss the issue. You may also call the parent information center at RIPIN with questions about school policies and procedures.
What?
Any discipline notice such as a note from the teacher, a suspension letter, in-school suspension notice or expulsion notice
Keep track of any conversations you might have with school staff about your child’s behavior

Report Cards and Standardized Test Scores
Why?
Each school has grading policies and you need to understand how your child will be graded and when report cards will be issued. Additionally, all schools are required to give and report on statewide testing and basic skills tests.
What?
Ask your child’s school for a list of test dates in advance
Keep all report cards and test results
Look for any sudden changes in your child’s performance or areas where your child has had continuous problems. The sooner problems are recognized, the faster you can request the school’s help in solving them.

Student Handbook and School Policies
Why?
It is important for you to understand school policies and procedures and to review this information with your child. The student handbook has information about the school’s schedule, student activities, and policies and procedures on attendance, grading, discipline, and more.
Schools follow these policies and procedures very closely
What?
Ask your child’s school for a new handbook each school year as they are under constant review

School Communication
Why?
Any time you have questions around any school related topic such as: Can my child receive a particular service? How do I get involved in my child’s school?
What?
Go in person with an appointment to see a teacher or principal
call, write or email