Truth #2: The evidence that parent involvement can make a significant difference in student achievement is beyond question.

Research finds that while socioeconomic status is important, the best predictors of student achievement are:

• A home environment that encourages learning.
• Parents' high expectations for achievement and future careers.
• Parents being involved in a child's education.

So, what are the magic ingredients called "outreach" to parents?  Research says...

• Meeting face to face with parents.
• Sending materials home to parents on ways to help their child at home.
• Telephoning parents, both routinely and when their child is having problems.

Based on research, LES has all bases covered on involving our parents in the education of their child.

What do you think has been the most important "outreach" to parents from your classroom?

Truth #1:  Parent Involvement is all about the children.

It is important to be clear about the purpose of parent involvement.  Parent involvement is NOT about:

• Keeping parents happy or out of your hair.
• Tapping parent expertise.
• Getting volunteer help--or field trip chaperones.
• Getting votes for a school bond election.
• Fundraising.
• Building personal support for your leadership.

It is all about making sure that children get the best education possible. 

"The way schools care about children is reflected in the way schools care about the children's families.

If educators view children simply as students, they are likely to see the family as separate from the school.  That is, the family is expected to do its job and leave the education of children to the schools.

If educators view students as children, they are likely to see both the family and the community as partners with the school in children's education and development."  
                                                                                                                ~Dr. Joyce Epstein

Our schools alone cannot provide the complete education children must have.

Parent involvement is all about the children and making sure they receive the kind of education they deserve and must have.

At LES, we must help parents support learning at home.  School parental involvement is not just at school.  We must provide parent information on:

• creating a home environment that is conducive to learning
• monitoring children's homework and activities assigned for home
• at-home activities/projects that students and parents can do together to enrich learning

List activities that you give your students to do at home with their parents each week that promote parent involvement?  Also answer the poll about the # of students whose parents do support these activities at home from your class.