Practical Strategies for Supporting Neurodivergent Teens in Round Rock ISD High Schools

Navigating high school is a big step for any teen, but for neurodivergent teens and their families, it can bring a unique set of challenges and questions. If you're part of the Round Rock ISD community, you're in luck—this district offers a variety of supports designed specifically to meet your teen's individual needs. In this post, we'll walk through practical strategies that parents can use to help their teens not just manage, but truly thrive in high school. Whether you're just starting this journey or looking for fresh ideas to boost your advocacy and support at home and school, we've got your back every step of the way.

Round Rock ISD (RRISD) uses a well-structured Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) framework. Think of MTSS as a flexible safety net that catches students at different levels depending on their needs. It’s designed to meet the diverse needs of all students, including neurodivergent teens, by providing the right level of support tailored to their unique learning and behavioral challenges.

MTSS is a proactive, data-driven approach with three tiers of support:

• Tier 1: Differentiated Core – This is the foundation where every student benefits from high-quality, flexible teaching in the general classroom. Teachers might use visual aids, hands-on activities, or flexible seating to help with executive function or sensory needs. Imagine it as customizing the classroom so your teen can learn in the way that suits them best.

• Tier 2: Focused Support – If your teen needs a bit more help, they move to small group or targeted interventions. This could be extra coaching on organization, social skills, or managing emotions—kind of like a study group tailored just for their challenges.

• Tier 3: Intensive Help – For students with significant needs, this tier offers personalized, one-on-one support. It often involves special education professionals and might include an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or a 504 plan, which are formal plans to ensure your teen gets the accommodations they need.

What’s great about MTSS is that it recognizes that your teen’s needs might change over time. They might do well with Tier 1 supports most days but need Tier 2 or 3 help during tougher times, like when executive functioning or sensory challenges spike. This flexibility helps keep your teen supported without feeling singled out.

• Stay Informed and Engaged: Ask your teen’s teachers how MTSS is helping your child. Regular chats help you see what’s working and where tweaks might help.
• Share What You Know: Tell the school about your teen’s strengths and what strategies work at home. This teamwork can make a big difference.
• Request Meetings When Needed: If progress stalls, don’t hesitate to ask for a meeting to discuss moving to more support or adjusting strategies.
• Build Partnerships: Connect with teachers, counselors, and special education staff. When everyone’s on the same page, your teen gets consistent support at school and home.

• Flexible Assignments: Your teen might show what they’ve learned through a video, a drawing, or a presentation instead of just writing.
• Sensory-Friendly Spaces: Quiet rooms or fidget tools help manage sensory overload.
• Executive Function Supports: Checklists, planners, or apps help keep tasks organized and deadlines clear.
• Positive Behavior Support: Clear rules and routines reduce anxiety and help your teen feel safe and understood.

Supporting your teen’s emotional well-being is just as important as academics. Round Rock ISD’s Behavioral Health Services team includes 11 Master’s level Social Workers who provide short-term counseling, crisis intervention, and connect families to community resources. They work closely with families and schools to support your teen’s whole health.

The district’s counseling program follows the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) National Model, supporting students academically, socially, and emotionally. Counselors help teens build skills in areas like executive function and social interactions, which can be challenging for neurodivergent students.

Cedar Ridge and Round Rock High Schools offer free, on-campus therapy sessions with licensed professionals. This makes it easier for your teen to get help without the hassle of travel or scheduling conflicts. If your teen is hesitant, try these approaches:

• Open the Conversation: Let your teen know it’s normal to ask for help and that these services are there to support them.
• Emphasize Convenience and Privacy: Therapy sessions are free, confidential, and fit into their school day.
• Work with School Staff: Counselors and social workers can guide you on the best services for your teen.
• Integrate Supports: Make sure counseling is part of your teen’s IEP or 504 plan if they have one.
• Celebrate Efforts: Praise your teen’s steps toward seeking support—it’s a big deal!

SEPAC is a parent-led group in Round Rock ISD that supports families of students with special education or 504 plans. It’s a great place to connect with other parents, share experiences, and learn about district policies and programs.

SEPAC works with district leaders to improve services and foster inclusion. Joining SEPAC can help you stay informed, build relationships with school staff, and advocate effectively for your teen.

1. Stay Informed: Use SEPAC and district resources to keep up with special education updates.
2. Build Relationships: Talk openly with teachers, counselors, and administrators.
3. Be Prepared: Before meetings, gather notes on your teen’s strengths, challenges, and goals.
4. Collaborate: Approach advocacy as a team effort with the school.
5. Connect with Other Parents: Sharing stories and tips can make you feel less alone and more empowered.

Supporting a neurodivergent teen through high school can feel overwhelming at times. But remember, you’re not in this alone. Tools like NeuroMule can help you organize information, track important details, and gain insights to lighten your load. Think of it as your calm, capable buddy helping you stay on top of meetings, plans, and communications.

Exploring NeuroMule could be just the support you need to feel confident and empowered as you advocate for your teen’s success and well-being in Round Rock ISD. You’ve got this—and we’re here to help every step of the way.