Challenge
Research shows when schools build positive relationships with families, students are more successful. I struggle to connect with the families of my students to foster these positive relationships using our current parent engagement strategies. As a kindergarten teacher, it is important for me to welcome parents into the educational process, establishing an effective home/school connection and giving them a voice in their childs education. When we validate participation and input from parents, we encourage them to be a part of the school culture. Parents who are engaged in the school culture become our school's best advocates with district administrators, lawmakers and the community to the benefit of all students. Parents and families are changing just as students are. I need new, innovative ways to engage parents that are interactive, social, and relevant. We are transforming classrooms to be student-centered so why cant we transform schools to be family-centered.