Please describe your definition of parental engagement.

By Michael Robinson

ETNB: Asked parents to tell us their definition of parental engagement and below are six definitions we found interesting:

1. I see four areas which for me defines parental engagement; (1) Awareness of school expectations; (2) Involved in the home school or parent teacher association; (3) Strict monitoring of child's homework performance; and (4). Monitoring outside influences on child's behavior (ex. media, substance abuse, sex, gangs).

2. Keeping in good communication with the school and the child's teacher. Asking questions about assignments and making sure that the student stays focused and organized. Visit the school get to know the staff and teachers. Use emails in stay in contact with the teachers. Become involved with the PTA. Work with the principal. Support the school. If there is a concern, get all of the facts first before reacting. Make sure that as the student moves through the high school years, he/she stays informed about the classes and credits needed for graduation.

3. Parent and/or family involvement is key in the success of student achievement. That involvement may vary (school visits, help with homework, communication with school staff, volunteer, extra curriculum activity support, etc.) but involvement nonetheless is the same. Additionally, success of student achievement can vary as well such: as increased student attendance, improved grades, decrease in behavioral problems, increased involvement in school activities, and/or increase in self esteem.

4. Parental engagement can be described as how engaged or involved the parent, guardian, or parent figure is with the child (as it pertains to health, education, emotional stability, physical/mental/social stability, etc.).

5. I personally get involved with my child's education by meeting with the teacher prior to the first day of school, giving the teacher my expectations for my child for the year and reviewing with my child his daily activities while at school.

6. Investing time in your child's academic journey, having a visible presence at school, and establishing relationships between faculty, administrators and the student. In addition, further reinforcing at home the importance of productivity, checking homework, having dialogue about issues and challenges.

7. Participation in the learning process with my child.

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