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.
Parent-teacher conferences connect incarcerated parents with their child’s teachers and caregiver to discuss progress, ask questions, and identify ways to support learning. Working together helps children feel supported and keep parents connected to their education.
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
The legal guardian starts the request. The request form brings the required information and permissions together to help make coordination more efficient and timely.
- Review the process flowchart for an overview of the steps and responsibilities.
- 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.
Publications
Below are Department of Corrections (DOC) publications that apply to Parent/Teacher Conferences.