The research is clear: Students perform better in school when their parents are actively involved in their education.
“Teachers help students soar and make their hopes and dreams come true,” said Reg Weaver, president of the National Education Association. “And when parents are involved in their children’s education, they will go farther – and the schools they attend are better.”
NEA, which represents 2.8 million teachers, education support professionals and other educators, offers five easy ways for parents to get more involved in education year-round:
- Check in with teachers on a regular basis. Be proactive and don’t wait for a problem or challenge to arise before taking action.
- Get to know the guidance counselors and other school employees. Education support professionals generally know most of the students in school, and their relationship with your children will continue as they move from one grade to the next.
- Attend school events. Open houses, parent-teacher conferences, dances or other school activities provide good opportunities for parents to connect with teachers and school employees.
- Volunteer at the school. Make time in your schedule to help out as a classroom helper or chaperone field trips.
- Keep the lines of communication open. Whether they are your children’s classmates, friends or neighbors, get to know others – especially parents who have children attending the same school. Form support groups to work on problems and issues of mutual interest.
“The home is an extension of the learning that takes place inside the classroom,” Weaver said. “When parents get involved in their child’s education, everyone wins.”
We are very involved parents in our children’s lives and definitely do not sit on the sidelines. I volunteered on and off in my children’s lives during their elementary school years, as well as in high school for several years. It has been very rewarding and illuminating to see and experience all that our public schools offer our children, whether they are special needs or atypical learners, there is always something to do for parents in the school district(s) around you. Get Involved so you don’t miss important milestones and information overall about your student and neighborhood.
By MomAdvocate
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Mandu Usoro is a lifestyle blogger, freelance writer, experienced homeschooler and US Army Veteran with a BS Degree in Social Work and AA Degrees in Psychology as well as Health Care Administration. She enjoys spending time with her family, advocating for her special needs son and writing for fun and inspiration. You can get in touch with her on Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedIn and at https://www.homeschoolspecneedstidbits.com/contact-us
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