As we are in the midst of midyear Individualized Learning Plan (ILP) conferences, I have been reminded of the important role that parents play in their child’s education. Currey Ingram strongly values our working relationships with parents. The roles are different, but each must support the efforts of the other to benefit the child.
A study conducted by the Gallup Organization revealed that parent engagement is critical to school success. Although equally as important, parent engagement differs slightly from involvement. The term engagement suggests a deeper level of attachment and implies an emotional connection or attachment to the school’s mission and a “proactive, interactive relationship with the school”. (Yu & Hodges, 2015)
Henderson & Berla (1994) found that one of the most accurate predictors of a child’s success is parent involvement in their child’s education at school. In addition to achievement, parent involvement can also positively impact homework completion, attendance and self-esteem (Olsen & Fuller, 2008). If parents are involved in a child’s community, the child will typically be involved as well. Parent involvement also communicates enthusiasm to the child and encourages excitement towards school. A child’s positive attitude about school can result in improved behavior in school, higher achievement and deeper connections to the school community (Olsen & Fuller, 2008).
Parents who are involved in their child’s education have increased conversations with his or her children about school-specific topics and also have more confidence in their parenting abilities. Further, parents have a better grasp on what is being learned and are more likely to promote learning activities in the home. Finally, high and consistent parent involvement in a school improves the communication and relationships among those working with the child. (Olsen & Fuller, 2008)
The Lower School at Currey Ingram offers many opportunities for parents. Four times each year, parents are invited to attend parent conferences in which the child is discussed with all team members in depth. In addition to these conferences, homeroom, language arts and math newsletters are provided each month to share information about the specific skills a child is learning. Workshops are offered through the Annette Eskind Institute of Learning on a wide variety of topics, and parents are always encouraged to attend. The Currey Ingram library includes the Cherrie Farnette parent resource library, which includes books on a wide range of topics.
Parents are encouraged to be a visible member of the Currey Ingram community as well. Many parents enjoy attending lunch with their child. There are also many parent-child and family events offered over the course of the school year. Finally, there are many volunteer opportunities available through the Currey Ingram Parent Organization (CIPO) that offer ways for parents to be involved in helping with events or other school projects.
Currey Ingram is an amazing school that is fully committed to providing its students a high-quality and well-rounded experience. We have a wonderful parent community, with a high percentage of involved parents and those fully committed to the work we do on a daily basis. Our hope is that our students’ parents will continue to share in that commitment, evidenced through their involvement and engagement with the school community.
References:
- Henderson, A.T. & Berla, N. (1994). A new generation of evidence: The family is critical to student achievement. Washington, D.C.: National Committee for Citizens in Education.
- Olsen, G. & Fuller, M.L. (2008). Home-school relations: Working successfully with parents and families. Retrieved January 11, 2016, from http://www.education.com/pdf/benefits-parent-involvement-research/.
- Yu, D. & Hodges, T. (2015). Parent engagement: Crucial element of successful schools. Retrieved from: http://www.gallup.com/businessjournal/186026/crucial-element-successful-schools-parent-engagement.aspx
