About
The Washington State Department of Corrections (DOC) supports opportunities for incarcerated parents to participate in their child’s education when involvement is safe, appropriate, and consistent with court orders and contact restrictions.
Every parent plays a vital role in their child's education. Providing opportunities for incarcerated parents to participate in parent-teacher conferences supports the student's learning and keeps the parent engaged in their academic success. When the legal guardian, incarcerated parent, and teacher collaborate, it creates a powerful network that helps the child feel supported.
Who can Participate?
An incarcerated parent, stepparent or parental figure may participate when:
- The child is on the approved visit list.
- The child’s legal guardian approves participation.
- The school agrees to participate.
- Participation is consistent with court orders and contact restrictions.
How to Request a Conference
Getting started is simple.
The legal guardian downloads the Parent-Teacher Conference (PTC) Request form. By working with the teacher to gather the required details and signing the form to approve the child's participation before submitting it to the counselor, guardians help us ensure a faster, more efficient scheduling process.
See the Parent-Teacher Conference Process chart for detailed information on the process.
- Coordinate with the child’s school and complete the Parent-Teacher Conference Request form.
- Submit the completed form to the incarcerated parent’s DOC counselor for review and coordination.
Please allow time for review, processing, and scheduling.
When Can Conferences Take Place?
Parent-teacher conferences are available twice a year during school conference periods. Additional conferences may be considered throughout the year when circumstances support a request.
For questions on the process, contact the Family Services Unit.
Resources
Forms
Laws & Regulations
Below are the state laws (RCWs) that apply to and/or relate to Parent/Teacher Conferences.
- RCW 28A.300.520 Policies to support children of incarcerated parents.
- RCW 72.09.495 Incarcerated parents – Policies to encourage family contact and engagement.
Publications
Below are Department of Corrections (DOC) publications that apply to Parent/Teacher Conferences.
- Parent-Teacher Conference Process (500-DG003)