SARATOGA SPRINGS — Parenting and educating our students is one of life’s most important and demanding pursuits. The Saratoga Springs City School District continues its community-focused mission of supporting our families and community members through Parent University, a series of free, informative programs. Parent University recognizes that behind each successful student are supportive families, teachers, school staff and community members who actively participate in a student’s education. No matter what role you play in our school community. Programs are generally designed with parenting adults in mind, but teens may also benefit from attending certain sessions.
2018-2019 PROGRAMS:
Tuesday, January 15: “More than Sad” presented by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. This program will be held in the Maple Avenue Middle School Large Group Instruction room (on the second floor) at 6:30 p.m. “More Than Sad” teaches parents and staff how to recognize signs of depression and other mental health problems, initiate a conversation about mental health with their child, and get help. This is a free program based on funds raised by the Capital Region Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). Students are invited to attend this program with their parents/guardians.
Tuesday, January 22: (Snow date of January 23) Screenagers film showing. This program will be held in the Maple Avenue Middle School Large Group Instruction Room at 6:30 p.m. Screenagers probes into the vulnerable corners of family life, including the director’s own, and depicts messy struggles, over social media, video games, academics and internet addiction. In addition, Skidmore College Assistant Professor Aarathi Prasad, Ph.D will share insight and answer questions about data management and privacy practices when using Internet-connected devices. Students are invited to attend this program with their parents/guardians.
Tuesday, February 5: “The New Discipline Plan: How to Gain Control of Your Home” presented by Dr. Cale. This program will be held at Caroline Street Elementary School at 9:30 a.m. Thursday, February 7: “Mind Your Stress” presented by Laurie Newcomer. Details TBD.
Wednesday, February 13: “Escalation: Understanding Signs of Relationship Abuse” presented by Wellspring. Follow a young couple through the very sweet beginnings of their relationship and observe how unhealthy behaviors can escalate into abuse. After watching the short film Escalation, dive into a discussion guided by a trained facilitator about the early warning signs of relationship abuse and what resources are available in your community. This program will be held at the Saratoga Springs High School Library at 6:30 p.m.
Wednesday, March 13: “Transition Planning for Students with Disabilities” presented by Charmaine M. Handler, Community Employment Specialist. This program will be held at the Saratoga Springs High School Library at 6:30 p.m. Learn about ACCES-VR services and other resources to help you plan a seamless transition from high school to post-secondary success! Students are invited to attend this program with their parents.
