Parental Involvement in Education is Easy as 1-2-3
Parents play a vital role in their children's education. As an advocate, parents can help ensure students have the best possible learning experience.
Advocating for students can be challenging. Here are three reminders to help parents advocate for better student experiences.
1. Understand your child's needs.
The first step to advocating for a student is to understand their needs. What are their strengths and weaknesses? What are their interests? What challenges do they face? Talk to the student. Monitor grades and test scores regularly. Study graded papers. Read detailed test score reports. This data helps to develop strategies for advocating for students.
2. Connect with (or create) your child's education team.
Your child's team of education professionals is a valuable resource. Ask questions and engage with the education team. Schedule a meeting to discuss your concerns and participate in the development of your child’s learning plan. Speak up multiple times if you are not satisfied with the response that you receive. (Parents of elementary school students can click here to join the homework help Facebook group.)
3. Get involved in your child's learning community.
Volunteer in the classroom, attend parent-teacher conferences, and join the PTA. Attend PTA/PTO meetings to understand the concerns of other parents. This will also give you a better understanding of how the school operates. If you have concerns about class size, school curriculum, or district policies, you can advocate for change. You can also join advocacy organizations that are working to improve education policy.
Eco Over Ego
When advocating for a student, it is important to focus on the eco, not the ego. This means prioritizing the student's needs. It is also important to remember that you are not alone. There are many other parents and educators who are working to improve education for all students.
Be patient, persistent, and polite. Don't expect to see results overnight. It may take time for teachers, administrators, and policymakers to implement or change programs and policies. Some people may be resistant to change. Funding and resource gaps also make change challenging. It is important to be patient and persistent in your advocacy efforts. Even when you disagree with someone, it is important to be polite and respectful. This will make them more likely to listen to your concerns and consider your suggestions.
You've reviewed the reminders and have the right mindset to advocate for better learning. Now, consider these opportunities for parental involvement in education. What do you notice? What can you do about it?
Observation: You notice the student is not being challenged in the classroom, and becomes bored and disengaged.
Opportunity: Consider talking to the teacher about ways to challenge your child academically. You can also ask about opportunities for enrichment activities, such as clubs or extracurricular programs.
Observation: You realize the student is struggling academically, and may fall behind in class and experience frustration.
Opportunity: Consider working with the school to create a plan to help your child succeed. This may include additional tutoring, modified assignments, or other accommodations.
Observation: You learn the student is being bullied, and you notice serious negative impact on the student's emotional and academic well-being.
Opportunity: Consider reporting the bullying to the teacher and/or principal immediately. Follow up on the school's investigation up to and including appropriate disciplinary action.
Advocating for students is an important way to help them succeed. By understanding student needs, connecting with education professionals, and getting involved in the community, you can make a difference in your child's education.
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