It is important that schools maintain regular contact with families and with members of the community. Principals have an important role cultivating and nurturing support for their efforts to strengthen and refine their schools. It is critical to provide families with the information and tools they need to support your vision for a more effective school. Rather than be reactive, develop a proactive strategy.In suburban Phoenix a principal asked his staff to share "turnaround" stories with him---stories of students who made a significant positive change in their learning. The principal always had two or three stories that he could share with families in formal and informal conversations. At a middle school in western North Carolina every communication with families include the school's core belief---"learning is not optional."
Families are almost always supportive of increasing the quality of their child's education. What they want, however, is specific ideas about how they can be helpful. Three strategies are critical. First, establish a variety of communication procedures, some in print, some in person, some electronic. Technology is helpful but not all families have the same access. Second, create and support authentic, meaningful roles for family members. Rather than just holding a meeting, include training and support. Craft volunteer opportunities that capitalize on family members' expertise, abilities and interests. Finally, provide families with support and resources. Although the specific types may vary depending on your families, families are almost always looking for good ideas and resources to support their children's success.
Here are some other tips from other principals.
- Provide ideas for how to organize the home to support homework completion.
- Create a parent library with books and materials about parenting and supporting students' academic growth.
- Organize a parent support group.
- Help families locate libraries and other helpful resources.
- Arrange for parents to share ideas and strategies they find successful in supporting their child's success in school.
- Include tips for parents in every school newsletter or other communication.
I hope you find these ideas helpful and would enjoy hearing from you about your ideas for working with families and community.
