Tips for Schools
Make parents feel welcome.

Often the first time a parent comes to school is when a child is in trouble. Schools can help reduce tensions by making friendly initial contacts with parents. Schools can also reduce distrust by arranging contacts in neutral settings off school grounds. Home visits by family liaison personnel can be particularly helpful. Some programs have used home-school coordinators to run weekly clubs for parents, helping to build parenting skills and trust between families and schools. Schools might also encourage parents, teachers, and students to meet at the beginning of the school year to agree on goals and develop a common understanding.

For more information, ideas, and publications, visit the Partnership for Family Involvement in Education, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Education.

Involve Families | Learn to Communicate | Encourage Parental Participation | Welcome Parents | Overcome Language Barriers | Use Technology

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