October 21, 2024
Schooling

How to Stay Engaged with Your Child’s School

Did you know that students with involved parents are twice as likely to earn high grades and excel in school? Research shows that parental engagement significantly boosts academic success and well-being. But how can busy parents stay actively involved?

Why Parent Involvement Matters:
Parental involvement is crucial in a child’s education. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, students with engaged parents are 25% more likely to perform better and have higher self-esteem. Your involvement not only supports academic achievement but also fosters a positive attitude towards learning and school.

How Involved Are You?
Consider your level of involvement on a scale of 1 to 5:

  • Rarely involved
  • Occasionally attend events
  • Regularly communicate with teachers
  • Frequently volunteer
  • Fully engaged in all activities

No matter where you are, there are always ways to increase your involvement!

Tips for Staying Engaged:

  • Attend School Events: Prioritize parent-teacher conferences and school meetings. 80% of teachers believe parent attendance boosts student motivation.
  • Volunteer: Help in the classroom, organize events, or chaperone trips. Your presence can make a big difference.
  • Communicate Regularly: Stay in touch with teachers to discuss progress and concerns. Regular communication leads to better outcomes.
  • Support Learning at Home: Set aside time for homework, encourage questions, and assist when needed.
  • Join the PTA/PTO: Participate in school policies and network with other parents to share ideas.

Overcoming Barriers:

  • Time Constraints: If your schedule is tight, use email or phone to check in with teachers, and stay informed through newsletters or alerts.
  • Lack of Information: Reach out to teachers for guidance on how to get involved and stay updated.

By attending events, volunteering, communicating, and supporting learning at home, you can have a significant impact on your child’s success. Overcoming obstacles to involvement ensures your child thrives academically and socially

References

  1. Henderson, A. T., & Mapp, K. L. (2002). A New Wave of Evidence: The Impact of School, Family, and Community Connections on Student Achievement. Southwest Educational Development Laboratory.
  2. National Center for Education Statistics. (2023). Parent and Family Involvement in Education. Retrieved from NCES
  3. Harvard Family Research Project. (2022). The Influence of Parent Involvement on Student Success. Available at Harvard Family Research Project
  4. U.S. Department of Education. (2023). The Benefits of Parental Involvement. Retrieved from U.S. Department of Education
  5. Education Week. (2023). How Parent Involvement Affects Student Achievement. Available at Education Week
  6. PTA.org. (2023). The Role of PTAs in Enhancing Parent Engagement. Retrieved from PTA
  7. Epstein, J. L. (2011). School, Family, and Community Partnerships: Preparing Educators and Improving Schools. Westview Press.