Children learn best when the significant adults in their lives (parents, teachers, etc) work together to encourage and support them. Schools alone cannot address all of a child's developmental needs.  The meaningful involvement of parents and support from the community are essential. 

The need for a strong partnership between school and families to educate children may seem like common sense.  In simpler times, this relationship was natural and easy to maintain.  Teachers and parents found many occasions to discuss a child's progress.  Children hear the same messages from teachers and parents and understood that the expectations at home and school were the same.  But, as our society has become more complex and demanding, these relationships have been neglected.  Neither educators or parents have enough time to get to know one another and establish working relationships on behalf of the children.  This lack of communication can often lead to misunderstandings, mistrust, and a lack of respect, so that when the child fails, teachers blame parents and parents blame teachers.

These days, it can take extraordinary efforts to build strong relationships between families and educators.  Schools have to reach out to families, making them feel welcome as full partners in the educational process.  Families, in turn, have to make a commitment of time and energy to support their children both at home and at school.  Our goal is to reestablish these connections.  The impact of significant and meaningful parent involvement is improving student growth and performance.