September Asset-Parent Involvement

Submitted by Terry Godfrey

September's Asset of the Month is Parent Involvement in Schooling.  Research shows that youth whose parents are actively involved in their schooling are more engaged in school; but, what does this mean?  We see plenty of parents on campus and at PTA events "being involved" but is that the only form it takes?  Every parent, every day can positively affect kids' lives.  It only takes a second. The National Network of Partnership Schools developed a framework for understanding different kinds of parent involvement: ·         Parenting: families establish home environments that support children’s learning ·         Communicating: families and schools engage in effective two-way communications about student expectations and progress  ·         Volunteering: parents directly support the classroom or school ·         Learning at home: families help students with homework and school-related decision-making and planning  ·         Decision making: parents are involved in school decisions   Parents whose schedules don’t allow volunteering can still support their children’s academic success through parenting, communication, and learning at home.  However you can do it, do it.  Remember it only takes a second.     To learn more:  www.projectcornerstone.org/pdfs/September_ParentInvolvementInSchool_ResourceKit.pdf To get involved in the Palo Alto Developmental Assets Initiative of Project Safety Net contact us at devassetspaloalto@gmail.com