DC SBOE

Print, check, advocate. Family Checklists for DC.

Four step-by-step checklists for the moments DC families need them most, high-school readiness, IEP meetings, college applications, and financial aid.

Published ByDC State Board of Education
Interactive ChecklistsDesigned to be used
Designed to be used

Four lists, four moments.

Each checklist focuses on one decision point. Print it, work through it together, bring it to the meeting.

Tap or pen Open this PDF on a tablet to tap each box, or print it and check each item with a pen as you go.
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List 1 · High-school readinessFor 8th-grade families
List 1

Is my student ready for high school?

A 22-check readiness review for 8th-grade families. Use it to identify strengths and any areas needing extra support before September.

Academic readiness

Organizational skills

Social-emotional readiness

High-school planning

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List 2 · IEP meeting preparationYou are an equal team member
List 2

IEP meeting preparation.

You are an equal member of the IEP team. Walk in prepared, ask the right questions, follow up so services actually happen.

Before the meeting (1–2 weeks ahead)

Documents to bring

Questions to ask

After the meeting

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List 3 · College application trackerSenior year
List 3

College application tracker.

26 checks to keep you organized through testing, materials, financial aid, deadlines, and post-submission follow-through.

Testing (by fall of senior year)

Application materials

Financial aid (start October 1)

Deadlines & after submitting

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List 4 · Financial aidDon't leave money on the table
List 4

Don't leave money on the table.

DC residents have access to one of the country's strongest college-aid benefits. Work through this list to get every dollar your student qualifies for.

Documents to gather first

FAFSA

DC TAG

Scholarships & after aid offers

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