The best way to help your children succeed is to get involved in their education. Research shows that when parents are actively involved with their children's education, students' grades are higher, their self-esteem is greater, and they are more socially adjusted. In fact, the most accurate indicator of a student's academic success in school is not tied to family income or social status, but the extent to which a family:
- Creates a home environment that encourages learning.
- Sets high but realistic achievement and career expectations.
- Becomes involved in their child's education and in the community.
In addition to attending parent-teacher conferences and other special events, opportunities to get involved at your child’s school abound. A few examples includes
- Attend Family Wednesday to dialogue with the principal and see your child "in action" in the classroom
- Classroom read alouds
- Classroom assistance
- Non-classroom assistance (field trips, media center, etc.)
- Organization involvement (PTCO, School Site Council)