Initiative: FDLRS Parent Services and the Parent Liaison Project focus on enhancing positive school/family communication and collaboration. Parent Liaisons assigned to each of the seven District Area Offices assist families in navigating exceptional education services; provide workshops/information sessions; and provide linkage to community resources.

Goals: To provide families technical assistance and consultation; to enhance positive school and family communication; to empower parents to be active participants in educational planning for their children.

Targeted Population: Exceptional Student Education (ESE) families and students throughout Hillsborough County Public Schools.

Timeline: The program was implemented in 1999. The program is active and has projected funding for the 2009/2010 year.

Staff Development: Staff is supported by District Area Office ESE personnel. FDLRS coordinates required inservice training for the Parent Liaison staff. FDLRS provides ongoing support and oversight for this initiative as part of its Parent Services function.

Transferability: The Florida Department of Education (FDOE) sees this as a best practice model. Other districts have inquired about replicating this project.

Involvement: FDLRS Parent Services and the Parent Liaison Project receive funding support from the Children's Board for the Parent Press newsletter; the ESE Advisory Board provides input; and also ongoing support from ESE administration and ESE Steering committee members.