The Physical, Cognitive, Psycho-Social Emotional and Spiritual Challenges impact academic success. Therefore, it is crucial that we consider Academic and Vocational Challenges.

• Curriculum and Scheduling
• Standards of Learning
• District and State Engrossments/Testing
• High School Outcomes
• SAT & ACT Testing
• Career Goals
• Transition Issues
• College and/or Vocational Planning

The physical, cognitive, and psycho-social emotional challenges greatly impact academic and vocational success. In fact, there are numerous academic and vocational challenges that are frequently not identified until the child or teen returns to school and resumes his everyday activities in the school setting. Therefore, it is imperative that the parent and child work closely with the school counselor to discuss curriculum and scheduling prior to returning.

While the younger child may transition back only for a partial day, it is important that the major core subjects, such as reading, math, science and social studies be taught during his or her time at school. Homebound services can be offered when the child or teen is absent from school for clinic visits or hospitalizations or when just not feeling well.

Many parents have concerns regarding whether or not their student should take district and state assessments or participate in SOL testing. This is a difficult question because while we want to know what skills the child has mastered, we also do not want to put worry and stress on the child. Therefore, this is a discussion that should be had between the teachers and parents to determine if SOL or district assessments should be given.

For a teen in high school, careful monitoring to make sure that the teen has the required verified credits for graduation is crucial. Discussion concerning whether the teen is pursuing a standard diploma or advanced diploma is also of utmost importance.

A child or teen should never feel that he or she cannot pursue a gifted program, advanced placement classes or an advanced diploma because of having cancer and experiencing some setbacks. The key is to have open communication and frequent meetings, perhaps quarterly, to discuss pertinent information regarding all aspects of the child’s education.

For the teen or college age student, discussions regarding SAT and ACT testing, career goals and transition to college would be helpful. Papers coming home announcing SAT testing and College Night are sometimes lost in the shuffle when parents are trying to resume getting back to work on a regular basis while simultaneously handling all the medical appointments and financial obligations.