November 2024

Happy (almost) Thanksgiving! Our Columbia office remains very busy - my thanks to all for following the new rules regarding timely inputs into TutorCruncher, as that seems to have alleviated some of the issues surrounding a lack of space. As I mentioned last month, hours do seem to be ticking upward, so please continue to let us know about changes in your schedules. Wishing all of you a happy holiday season!

- Unfortunately, there was some backsliding around payroll this past month - a gentle but firm reminder that you need to have your hours in on time, following the emails / texts / calls that Michelle and/or Elisa provide.

- Another reminder: if you don't have a profile picture up on TutorCruncher, please upload one - only administrators can see them (not other tutors or clients), and it helps us put a face to a name. Thank you!

- Important: Michelle has made sure that there's a printed version of the day's schedule on her desk at the Columbia office. Please make sure you cross your name off when you arrive / use the room, so that we can accurately assess if additional space is needed.

- We've worked to make sure there's a sound machine in every room at our Columbia office, so please be sure you're using it. If you need additional sound-proofing, please let Michelle know.

- For those who don't know, we have a Facebook group called LINKZ Tutors! It's a great resource, created and curated by all of you, and if you're not on it, please consider joining! The link is here (please let me know if you have difficulties joining the group and/or need to be added).

- The updated Learning @ LINKZ calendar has been posted on the Wiki, so please check that for our upcoming workshops (the next one is on Monday, December 2nd @ 6:30 PM at our Columbia office, and it's our annual Potluck Dinner and White Elephant gift exchange!).

- Our in-house advocate, Louise Supnick, will be giving a workshop to our LINKZ parents on Thursday, December 5th @ 6:00 PM at our Columbia office: "Everything You Want to Know About the IEP Process". Here is the email that was sent to all of our parents:

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We are excited to invite you to our upcoming workshop, “Everything You Want to Know About the IEP Process!” Led by our in-house advocate, Louise Supnick, This workshop is designed to provide you with essential knowledge and resources to support your child through the IEP process.

We'll cover:
- The IEP Process: An overview of the stages involved in developing and implementing an Individualized Education Program (IEP) for your child.
- The Role of Parents: Learn about the critical role you play in advocating for your child’s educational needs and how you can be an active participant in every step.
- Parent Rights and the Law: Understand your rights under the law, including what protections are in place to ensure that your child receives the support they need.
- Ways an Advocate Can Assist You: Discover how an educational advocate can support you, from preparation to representation, and help make the process smoother and more effective.

We understand that navigating the IEP process can feel complex and even overwhelming. Our goal is to equip you with practical information, answer your questions, and empower you as an advocate for your child’s education.

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If you're interested in attending as well, please use this RSVP link.