Embedded Files
Helping families access the right education—and the support that goes with it.
At Bright Star Support Services, we believe that every child deserves access to quality education and every parent deserves a voice in their child’s learning journey. Whether you're enrolling your child in preschool, navigating special education services, or trying to understand school enrollment zones, we’re here to help you every step of the way.
We work with families to:
Understand school enrollment and transfer options
Access early childhood education programs
Navigate IEPs, 504 plans, and special education rights
Connect with tutoring or academic support resources
Apply for Head Start, Pre-K, or after-school programs
We Can Help With
We Can Help With
Enrolling in local public, charter, or early learning programs
Applying for Head Start and public Pre-K
Understanding your rights under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
Requesting and reviewing IEP or 504 plan documents
Finding free or low-cost tutoring, mentoring, and enrichment programs
Connecting with ESOL (English language) services for multilingual families
🛠 How We Help
🛠 How We Help
Advocate for families in school meetings and IEP conferences
Support enrollment paperwork and transferring school records
Refer to free tutoring, special education services, or community school liaisons
Help families understand their rights within the school system
Offer back-to-school checklists and supply drives
Communicate with school staff on behalf of families when needed
Downloadable Resources:
Downloadable Resources:
📄 School Enrollment Checklist
Use this checklist to make sure you have everything needed to enroll your child in school in Maryland:
- Proof of age (birth certificate, passport)
- Proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or official mail)
- Parent/guardian photo ID
- Immunization and health records - Withdrawal or transfer forms from previous school (if applicable)
- Completed registration forms (provided by the school)
- IEP or 504 Plan (if applicable)
- Proof of custody (if needed)
Tip: Contact the school directly for specific documents or deadlines. Bright Star can help you gather what you need.
📄 IEP & 504 Parent Guide
If your child has a disability, they may be eligible for extra support through an IEP (Individualized Education Program) or a 504 Plan.
What's the difference?
- IEP: A legal plan developed under special education law (IDEA). For students who need specialized instruction.
- 504 Plan: A plan under civil rights law (Section 504). For students who need accommodations but not special instruction.
How to start:
- Put your request in writing to the school
- Ask for an evaluation
- Attend meetings and help create the plan
Tip: Bright Star can help you understand your rights and communicate effectively with the school.
📄 Baltimore-Area Tutoring & Enrichment Programs
Here are some free or low-cost tutoring and enrichment programs for students in the Baltimore area:
- Reading Partners Baltimore: www.readingpartners.org | Grades K-5
- Baltimore City Recreation & Parks Youth Programs: www.bcrp.baltimorecity.gov
- Code in the Schools: www.codeintheschools.org | Coding & STEM
- Enoch Pratt Free Library - Student Support Center: www.prattlibrary.org
- Living Classrooms Foundation: www.livingclassrooms.org
- YMCA Youth Programs: www.ymcamd.org
Programs vary by location and age group.
You can contact providers directly for enrollment details.
Why this Matters
Why this Matters
Educational success begins with access and advocacy. Whether your child is just starting Pre-K or facing learning challenges, we’re here to help you navigate school systems with confidence and care.
Need Help with School of Education Services?
Need Help with School of Education Services?
Please fill out our Family Support Request Form. We’ll help you find the right program—and make sure you feel supported every step of the way.
✨ We Support Families Who:
✨ We Support Families Who:
Are new to the school system or area
Have children with learning or behavior challenges
Need help re-engaging a child who’s missed school
Are involved with foster care, kinship care, or reunification
Want to advocate for their child’s educational needs
💬 What We Offer
💬 What We Offer
Help enrolling children in school or pre-K programs
Support navigating school transfers or changes due to housing
Advocacy for children with IEPs or 504 Plans
Referrals to tutoring, literacy, and after-school programs
Connections to back-to-school supplies and clothing drives
Assistance communicating with school counselors and staff
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse