PCS Basics
What does PCS stand for?
Permanent Change of Station
Name one document that families will often struggle to locate during a PCS?
Immunization records, transcripts, and IEPs.
What is one routine that can help youth feel grounded in both school and residential?
Consistency in schedules, morning check-ins, and predictable transitions.
What are some tools to help youth practice emotional regulation in both school and residential?
Fidgets/stress balls, noise-canceling headphones.
Name one common academic challenge students face during a PCS
Curriculum gaps, missing credits, placement issues
What subject is most commonly disrupted by a PCS move?
Math
What is one reason a youth might test boundaries when they first arrive?
Checking for safety, consistency and trustworthiness of adults
What resource helps families understand how credits transfer during a PCS?
Academic transition planning
True or False: Schools must wait for full records before enrolling a PCS student
False - they must enroll immediately
What can schools use to identify academic gaps quicly?
Diagnostic assessments + placement tests. (Ex: We use WJIV and our benchmark testing, STAR)
What is a collaborative strategy between school and residential staff that improves student emotional stability?
Communication logs/notes, shared behavior + academic plans, and consistent expectations.
Scenario: A student shuts down in class after hearing conflict among other students. They clearly need space. What tool can be provided to help them step away safely?
Processing with staff
What compact protects the educational rights of military-connected students?
MIC3 (Military Interstate Children's Compact Commission) --- applies to all public schools and DOD schools.
What can schools offer when a student's IEP hasn't been transferred yet?
Comparable services based on the previous IEP
What is an emotional need that often goes overlooked during rapid transitions?
Time to process feelings
Scenario: Family is preparing for their youth to return home and wants to know what to expect, etc. What resource will help support them?