Research clearly shows that when schools, families, and community groups partner to support learning, children tend to do better in school and stay in school longer.
According to A New Wave of Evidence, a report from Southwest Educational Development Laboratory, regardless of family income or background, students with involved parents are more likely to:
- Earn higher grades and test scores, and enroll in higher-level programs
- Be promoted, pass their classes, and earn credits
- Attend school regularly
- Have better social skills, show improved behavior, and adapt well to school
- Graduate and go on to postsecondary education
Studies show that the more involved a child’s parents or guardians, the greater the positive impact on academic achievement. Visiting the school, or participating in community activities that promote good public schools, means a lot to both the child and the educators working with him or her.
Be a volunteer
Don’t miss your school newsletter for information about schoolwide volunteer opportunities, or ask your child’s teacher about classroom needs. Volunteering doesn’t always mean coming into school. From help in the main office, to tutoring, chaperoning field trips, or helping with a special project, parental involvement makes a difference.
Stay engaged
Time and again, research has shown that parents’ engagement in their child’s education helps lead to academic success. Don’t miss your parent-teacher conference, your PTA meetings, and classroom or schoolwide events. Ask your child about their school day, help them with homework, and enjoy reading time together. Make education and your child’s school life a priority at home, at the dinner table, and in your family. When you’re involved, your student will be, too!
If you don't have time to commit to your child's school, you can still stay involved in positive ways. Check out the resources below for ideas on how to be an active advocate for your child's education.
