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The ABCs of SSTs

Writer's picture: Alyssa AlthouseAlyssa Althouse

Updated: Jan 18

Parents in a school meeting feeling prepared and empowered to advocate for their child

Everything You Need to Know About the SST Process: Supporting Your Child's Success in School

If you’ve ever felt lost navigating the maze of school processes designed to support struggling students, you’re not alone. I know what you're thinking..."wait, there are supports for my child?" Yes, even if the teacher told you they are "doing fine"! And if you thought you couldn't stomach one more acronym, take a tums and proceed to read because this could be the first step in changing your child's trajectory at the school level!


The Student Support/Study Team (SST) meeting is a key step in identifying challenges and creating strategies for student success. Whether it’s academic hurdles, behavioral concerns, or social-emotional needs, the SST process brings together a team of experts—parents included!—to address these issues head-on. Think of it as a school-based brainstorming session—minus the coffee and notebook doodles (though feel free to bring both).


This post will walk you through the essentials so you can start to feel prepared, confident, and empowered to advocate for your child.


What Is an SST Meeting?

An SST meeting is a collaborative discussion between teachers, parents, administrators, and other school staff to identify a student’s strengths and challenges. It’s part of the Response to Intervention (RTI) or Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) process (the Swiss Army knife of school problem-solving) and serves as a first step to addressing concerns.

Key points to know:

  • SST meetings are less formal than IEP or 504 plan meetings, but they’re just as important in creating an action plan tailored to your child’s needs. It gets the ball rolling and get your child more attention that they deserve.

  • They can be used to explore interventions and accommodations alone, or before considering special education referrals.

  • A meeting can be requested by parents or school staff, so don’t hesitate to initiate one if you see your child struggling in any way. Just say NO to slipping through the cracks. Email me for a copy of a letter template!

Common Reasons for an SST Meeting

If your child is facing challenges in any of these areas, call an SST meeting right away!:

  • Academic struggles, such as difficulty with reading, writing, or math.

  • Behavioral, emotional, or mental health concerns. (spoiler: tantrums might be a symptom, not the problem)

  • Attendance or truancy issues or school can't challenges.

  • Social challenges, including friendship struggles or difficulty adjusting to classroom routines.

  • Unresolved parent concerns that require additional school support.

How to Prepare for an SST Meeting

Preparation is everything (you know, like a parent with snacks in their bag). Here’s how to make the most of this opportunity:

  1. Document Everything

    Start a folder with communication logs, teacher notes, work samples, test scores, and any other relevant information. This will help you present a clear picture of your child’s challenges and progress.

  2. Clarify Goals and Concerns

    Be ready to articulate your child’s strengths and areas where they need support. For example:

    • Strength: "They’re highly creative and love solving puzzles."

    • Challenge: "Their reading is very labored, their handwriting is illegible, and/or they get frustrated during homework."

  3. Bring Data

    If you have private assessments, health information, or behavioral observations from home, share them. Schools appreciate concrete evidence to better understand your child’s needs and how to support them (and you!).

  4. Collaborate

    Approach the meeting as a team effort. While advocating for your child, remember the school’s goal is the same: to help them succeed. But also don't be afraid to be a gentle demander. I see you mama/papa bear! Trust your gut.


What Happens During the Meeting?

During the SST meeting, the team will:

  • Review student work and performance data. (bonus points if they bring solutions and not complaints!)

  • Discuss strengths and challenges.

  • Develop an action plan, which will hopefully include interventions (tier 2 or other) and/or accommodations within the general classroom.

Your role is to:

  • Share personal insights about your child.

  • Provide relevant background information, like health concerns or strategies that work at home.

  • Actively participate in brainstorming solutions.

Follow-Up After the SST Meeting

Before leaving the meeting, make sure to:

  • Schedule a follow-up meeting to review progress (typically in 8–12 weeks).

  • Request a copy of the meeting notes for your records (for those moments when you think, Wait, what did we agree on again?).

Over the next few weeks, the school will implement interventions and track progress. You can support this process by observing changes at home and providing feedback at the follow-up meeting.

A note on 504 Plans vs. IEPs (see my other blog post for more)

If additional support is necessary, the SST process may lead to a 504 plan or an Individualized Education Program (IEP).

  • 504 Plan: Provides accommodations to ensure accessibility (e.g., extended test time or seating arrangements).

  • IEP: Offers specialized instruction and services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

Tip: If your child’s needs seem to require an IEP, don’t settle for “let’s try a 504 first.” Time is of the essence when it comes to securing the right support.

Need Help Preparing for an SST Meeting to get the most out of it?

Navigating school systems can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. As a reading specialist and parent advocate, Learn with Alyssa can help you:

  • Understand the SST, 504, and IEP processes.

  • Prepare for school meetings and advocate effectively for your child (I know those buzzwords to get everyone leaping into action!).

  • Review and refine IEP goals.

  • Develop strategies for home support to complement school efforts.

📞 Call: (415) 823-2400📧 Email: alyssa@learnwithalyssa.net


Let’s work together to ensure your child gets the support they need to thrive in school and beyond.


Happy Advocating,

Alyssa

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