This week's consult, which usually falls on Monday, comes on Tuesday. The question is courtesy of Julia McCready: What is the best way to lobby for more recess and multisensory education at my child's school?

For the answer, I contacted Kara E. B. Calder, spokesperson for Baltimore County public schools. "There are a number of ways that parents can engage with the school system to both learn more about what is happening at the schools in their communities and to communicate to the school system their questions and concerns," Calder said. In Baltimore County, for example, Calder encourages communicating directly with the Board of Education via the board's administrative assistant.

There's also an opportunity for public comment from students, parents and members of the community at board business meetings. Calder also pointed to the Baltimore County public schools Web site's new parents/families page, which offers a wealth of research, study and learning resources, as well as information on joining advocacy and stakeholder groups such as education advisory councils. Members of the advisory council advise the board on issues that affect students, families and the community.