Information for Parents, Families and Guardians
As a parent or guardian, you are the most important voice in your child’s education. Texas law recognizes that students do best when families are informed, involved, and respected.
University of Texas Elementary School’s Commitment to Families
The University of Texas Elementary School is committed to partnering with parents and families throughout every student’s educational journey. As an innovative online school serving students under 21 years of age across Texas and around the world since 1998, we believe that strong family engagement is essential to student success. We are committed to ensuring that parents have access to the information, resources, and opportunities they need to be actively involved in their child’s education, regardless of their geographic location.
In accordance with Texas law, as outlined in Education Code 26.0071, the University of Texas Elementary School is required to obtain written consent from parents/guardians for specific services and activities. This legislation ensures that parents are fully informed and give permission for the care and support provided to their students.
Important Note
In the event of a serious emergency, staff will continue to prioritize your child’s safety and contact you immediately. Academic instruction, tutoring, and classroom guidance lessons are not affected by these consent requirements.
Essential Resources for Parents, Families and Guardians
Texas Parental Rights Information
Complete information about your rights as a parent in Texas public education, including school options, course selection, and special services.
View Parental Rights and Options Information (PDF)
Health Services Information
Important information about health-care and health-related services available at UT Elementary, including consent requirements and your rights.
View Health Services Notice (PDF)
Student Code of Conduct
Review the Student Code of Conduct Handbook that serves both UT Elementary and UT University Charter Schools.
Staff Directory & Contact Information
Find contact information for faculty and staff members at UT Elementary School.
Parent or Guardian Comments
In accordance with Education Code 26.0071, parents of enrolled students may submit comments or concerns to campus administration or the UT Elementary School Advisory Board through the internet portal below.
Parental Rights Grievance Procedure
In accordance with Texas Education Code 26.0071, University of Texas Elementary School has established a formal grievance procedure for parents and students.
When to File a Grievance
This procedure is for formal complaints regarding violations of parental rights, including:
- Denial of access to student records or educational materials
- Violation of parental consent requirements
- Failure to provide required notifications about student services
- Retaliation for exercising parental rights
- Other violations of rights established under Texas Education Code Chapter 26
Filing Process
Step 1: Informal Resolution (Recommended)
Email the school principal to attempt a resolution:
Lara Wilder, Executive Principal – lara.wilder@austin.utexas.edu
Step 2: Administrative Review
If informal resolution is unsuccessful, submit a written grievance to the superintendent using the Administrative Review Form. It will be sent to Assistant Superintendent Autumn Leal-Shopp.
When filling out the form, you will be asked to provide: Student name and UTHS program, specific parental right(s) allegedly violated, date(s) of incident(s), description of the violation, names of staff involved (if known), a summary of the Informal Resolution discussion, your desired resolution, and your contact information and preferred method. The Assistant Superintendent will review your concern and respond within 10 business days.
Step 3: Formal Written Grievance
If you are not satisfied with the administrative review, you may file a formal grievance with the Superintendent using the Formal Grievance Form. It will be sent to Superintendent Nicole Whetstone.
When filling out the form, you will be asked to provide: Student name and UTHS program, specific parental right(s) allegedly violated, date(s) of incident(s), description of the violation, names of staff involved (if known), a summary of the Informal Resolution discussion, your desired resolution, and your contact information and preferred method. The Superintendent will review your concern and respond within 10 business days.
Step 4: Final Appeal
If you are not satisfied with the resolution, you may appeal the decision to the UTHS Executive Director and governing board within 10 business days of receiving the written response. Email Melissa Chavez: executivedirector@austin.utexas.edu.
Protection Against Retaliation
UTHS prohibits retaliation against any person who files a grievance in good faith or participates in a grievance investigation.
Record Keeping
Grievance records are maintained confidentially and reported to the Texas Education Agency as required by law.
Questions about the grievance process? Contact the Superintendent’s office:
Office Number: 512-495-3300
Email: ut.elementary@austin.utexas.edu
