Back-to-school planning means checking off supply lists, picking out first-day outfits and readjusting to school hours. For many Black families, it also means searching for guidance that’s typically shared through private conversations and networks. We spoke with back to school education experts to pull together practical advice for parents navigating everything from elementary through college prep.
Whether your student is learning the ABCs or preparing for the SATs, these 15 tips can help. Dr. LaToya Lofton, a Chicago Public Schools assistant principal, and Kimberly Johnson, an independent educational consultant and former college admissions counselor in New York, shared their insights on what back to school education success really looks like for Black families.
Success Starts at Home
Clear expectations for morning and bedtime routines, screen time and homework workspaces help children manage responsibilities before workloads increase. These foundational habits matter far more than cramming.
Recognize When ‘Studying Harder’ Isn’t Enough
Stigma around learning differences, ADHD and mental health leads some Black families to resist evaluations when a child is struggling. Lofton warns that waiting until a child is on the verge of failure can mean missed opportunities and significant academic setbacks. Early intervention changes everything.
Know the Difference: IEP vs. 504 Plan
An individualized education program (IEP) and a Section 504 plan can both provide accommodations such as extended test time, but an IEP also includes specialized instruction. Since students’ needs shift, moving between an IEP and a 504 plan may be appropriate at different stages.
If you disagree with a school’s evaluation, parents can obtain an independent educational evaluation (IEE) at no cost.
Don’t Let Support Plans Limit Ambitions
An IEP or 504 plan is not a ceiling on what a student can achieve. Lofton stressed that accommodations in one subject don’t prevent a student from taking rigorous courses in another. A student receiving math support can still thrive in AP English or advanced sciences.
Be Present and Engaged
“I need us to show up,” Lofton said plainly. Parents should attend meetings, review school documents before sessions and ask questions when something is unclear. When children have accommodations, ensure teachers actually know what they are.
Advocate Effectively
Lofton urged parents to “exercise grace and mercy” with teachers. Criticizing educators on social media for a delayed Friday-night email response doesn’t serve your child, who must sit in that classroom all year. There’s a difference between holding teachers accountable and treating them as adversaries.
Teach Children Self-Advocacy
Students should understand how they learn best. As they get older, they need to build confidence in communicating their needs and asking for help. This skill matters in college, work and life.
Build Life Skills Beyond Classrooms
Gradually hand over responsibilities like laundry, cooking and scheduling appointments so students aren’t managing them for the first time when they leave home. Johnson noted that some college students unenroll because they’re overwhelmed by balancing school and daily life. Help them practice managing both now.
Plan for Every Future
Not every student heads to a four-year university, but everyone needs a plan. Families should consider paths such as community college, trade school, employment or independent living. For students with IEPs, transition planning should reflect realistic goals for life after high school.
Set Goals Beyond a 4.0
Many families still believe a perfect GPA is required for college admission. Johnson said plainly, “That’s simply not true.” Colleges also value sports, clubs and volunteer work. She warns that admissions readers can tell when students start piling on activities late in high school. Sustained involvement that reflects genuine interests tells a stronger story.
‘AP Everything’ Is Not a Strategy
Students should choose AP courses based on their strengths and long-term goals, not simply to stack transcripts. “You have to look at what a student wants to do long term, and that is how you decide what actual AP courses you’re going to take,” Johnson explained. AP courses can also earn college credit, reducing both time and cost of a degree.
Don’t Assume Guidance Is Out of Reach
Many families don’t realize how many free or low-cost college-planning resources are available. Johnson recommends Scholarship College Mama for tips, ScholarMatch for free virtual coaching for first-generation college students, and BigFuture for college and scholarship searches. Some independent educational consultants offer sliding-scale rates, making expert guidance more accessible.
Students With Weaker Grades Still Have College Options
For students with lower GPAs or limited financial means, Johnson suggested programs such as the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) and the Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP). While common in New York, similar programs exist in other states. Ask the admissions or financial aid office about scholarships tied to criteria such as community service.
Test-Optional Doesn’t Always Mean Skip the Test
Even if a college doesn’t require SAT or ACT scores for admission, Johnson recommends students take the test at least once. Some scholarships require scores. Before deciding to skip the exams, families should ask admissions offices whether test scores are considered for scholarships or other opportunities. Khan Academy’s free SAT prep site works well for students who choose to test.
College Accommodations Aren’t Automatic
Students move from the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) protections they receive in K-12 schools to protections under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in college. Students must self-disclose to college disability services and provide documentation to request accommodations, which can include separate testing rooms, note-taking support or lecture recording.
Because accommodations aren’t retroactive and take time to process, students should register with disability services before classes start rather than wait until they fall behind.
★TR★
