PART TWO: A DISCUSSION With FIVE SCHOOL BASED PROFESSIONALS ABOUT PARENTAL ENGAGEMENT

Written by

Michael A. Robinson

Education: The Natural Bridge (ETNB) has long understood the important role parents play in the academic success of their children. Research has shown engaged parents impact the way children think about education. Thus suggesting when parents put emphasis on education the children follow.

In a ground breaking discussion over the next several weeks ETNB will closely examine the aspects of parental engagement, by discussing the pros and cons associated with increase parental engagement in public schools. During this time we will interview a panel of fathers/significant male role models, teachers, and counselors to obtain their views and opinions regarding parental engagement.

In part two of our five part discussion with five professionals from one of Maryland’s largest school districts we focused on barriers that may be inhibiting some parents from becoming involved with their children’s school. This segment produced some rich and authentic discussion about barriers to engagement.

ENTB: What are some of the major barriers to parental engagement today versus years ago as it relates to education?

Luz: I can give you six direct barriers to parental engagement.

1. Parents working extra hours
2. Language barrier
3. Lack of education
4. Lack of motivation
5. Parents don’t know the American Education System
6. Some parents don’t feel welcome at school

José: Essentially, there is a need for the families to adjust to today’s society dynamics. That is, most parents work and some more than one job. Therefore, they are no longer at home to assist the children with their school work. Children spent a substantial amount of time after school away from home, often along in the house without adult supervision or interaction. In addition, as our neighborhoods become more and more diverse, language and cultural barriers inhibit the needed communication between the school, the students and the families. Very often the level of academic achievement of the parents can be a barrier to communicate with the students and the school. This problem precludes many parents from assisting their children with school work. Living in poor urban settings and with many families in one household, does not provide the appropriate climate for learning and schooling. Many of those urban settings do not have adequate schools that offer quality educational programs to meet the needs of the diverse populations.

Jason: Today there are more single parent homes, lack of home-school communication, increased homeless population, transient families, economic and societal problems, parent’s education level, and a parent’s lack of understanding how to be and advocate for their child.

Vanessa: As it relates to education, the major barrier to parental engagement today versus years ago is the lack of a true, nurturing partnership between home, school, and the community. Parents have difficulties developing trusting relationships with staff and leadership that change often. Teachers and staff easily become frustrated with families that do not comprehend specific ways in which they can support their child’s educational advancement. And besides making financial contributions to the school, community businesses and organizations struggle with their idea of a mutually beneficial relationship in this triad. Developing and maintaining long-lasting bonds between these three domains have a very low probability compared to years ago without a definitive and purposeful plan.

Leydin: Quality of time and not being informed about how the school system works in today's society.