‘It Takes a Village’: Build an academic foundation for your child with strong parent-school engagement
This article is the final edition of a four-part series published by the Santa Clara County Office of Education, along with our partners, to provide timely information to parents about navigating our public school system.
The 2016-17 school year is here, and kids have returned to school. A high level of parental involvement is important to help your child succeed every day. According to the California Parent Teachers Association, schools would need to spend $1,000 more per pupil to receive the same student achievement gains that an involved parent brings.
Here’s a few ways you can take an active role in your child’s education and build a strong academic foundation throughout the school year:
- Develop a partnership with teachers and school staff. Take the time to meet your child’s teachers, and other staff at the school. Don’t let a language barrier stop you; ask the school to help you with interpretation. What you have to say is more important than the language you say it in.
- Regularly check in with the school. Schools typically have one or two parent-teacher conferences each year. If you have concerns at other times during the year, don’t hesitate to ask the teacher how your child is doing.
- Consider using special services if you think your child may need extra help. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the school or district office for help in evaluating what additional needs your child may have, such as more individualized instruction.
- Help with homework. Set aside time for homework each day, and help if you are able, or maybe find a friend or family member who can assist. Reach out to the school or district office, other parents, or your local parent teacher association (PTA) for references.
- Get involved with your child’s school by volunteering, joining the PTA, or asking where there’s a need. Make sure you also connect with teachers via e-mail or phone as many teachers send daily or weekly messages to parents.
Remember to check out
www.sccoe.org for information related to these topics and more.
This series is brought to you by the Santa Clara County Office of Education and features information from the California State PTA, SCCOE Families Learning Together Parent Engagement Initiative, Colorín Colorado, and Understood.Org.
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