Family Engagement

The National Standards for Parent/Family Involvement were established in 1995. The Guidelines for successful, meaningful parent involvement were developed by the National PTA in cooperation with education and parent involvement professionals. Research clearly shows that if parents are involved in their child's education, the child can do better academically, socially and emotionally. This is true regardless of racial, economic or cultural background. Does your community really understand this critically important point? Remember - parent involvement has three distinct phases. Parents are their child's first teacher. Then, they become a partner with the school. As parents see the bigger picture, many become an advocate for all children.

Embracing Summer!

In the perfect world, when we think of summer, our thoughts are immediately drawn to relaxation, cookouts, the beach and more importantly "quietness". Then reality sets in, and parents we are faced with keeping thier little ones busy and occupied during the summer months. Sound familiar?

We found a wonderful blog written by Ilene Jacobs, a freelance writer who suggested, 101 Fun Things to Do with Kids This Summer. The trick to a stress free summer is to plan your activities early. She recommends creating a summer bucket list. Be sure to include your children in the process. Spending quality time as a family is vital and rewarding to all. Enjoy your summer!

Check out the following resources:

• Families - An Essential Ingredient for Student Success
• The Kids Cook Monday
• Take your Family to School Week
• National Family Week
• NPTA - Schools of Excellence Program
• NPTA - Every Child in Focus
• Urban Family Engagement Network