Moving Your Child’s School Records

Your child’s school records are among the important documents you will need to round up or make arrangements to have sent during a move. It’s probably wise to at least have a set of copies with you when you register your child at his new school, but remember that only official, sealed copies will usually be accepted for his permanent record.

The official transcripts will include report cards and likely results of standardized tests, so administrators at your new school can see the academic level your child is at. You should also consider brining more than just the official school records.

Grades and test scores aren’t always the best indicators of your child’s strengths and weaknesses and they don’t always translate between school districts or schools in different states. If your child was in a public school and you are considering a private school in your new community, you will certainly want to provide additional information.

Here’s a look at some of the items that could be beneficial in making sure your child has a smooth transition to her new school:

• Examples or copies of your child’s latest classroom work, especially in math, science and English.
• Letters from teachers or counselors discussing your child’s strengths, interests or weaknesses.
• List of textbooks your child was using before transferring. Include author and publisher. This will give the new teachers a better understanding of the level your child was studying.
• Include information on any of your child’s extra-curricular activities, such as drama, athletics, ASB or science club.
• Also outline your child’s hobbies and activities outside of school.
• If you child had a job, make sure they get a letter of reference as it will make getting a new job much easier, especially if it’s a long-distance move.
• Make sure to bring medical records and evidence of immunization. Most schools will require up-to-date shots and will want to know if there are any existing health issues.