Secret Weapon Discovered: Scientists Say Parents Partnering with Teachers Can Change the Future of Education

Author: Furger, R.
Publisher: Edutopia
Publication Date: 2006, March
Full text available online at: http://www.edutopia.org/secret-weapon-discovered

Abstract (written by WestEd)

The author introduces this article by contrasting herself, an involved parent at her children's schools, with parents who are not involved — not because they are not interested, but often because of conflicts with their jobs, lack of daycare, bad educational experiences themselves, linguistic or cultural barriers, lack of familiarity with the American school system, or in some other way do not feel comfortable or prepared to help their children in the school arena.

Several schools and their innovative parent involvement programs are highlighted. For example, in Sacramento, CA, teachers conduct home visits twice a year; at those schools parent involvement is up, absenteeism down. In Oakland, CA, parents are critical members of teams starting small schools in their communities. The article also discusses six types of parent involvement and five ways to boost parental involvement.