Families are a crucial component of K-12 schools, and they can be a school’s biggest allies in supporting student learning and success. When families are involved and engaged in their child’s education, it can have a positive impact on both the child’s academic performance and the school community as a whole. Here are a few ways that family support can help K-12 schools:
Volunteer Support
Families can be a tremendous asset to schools as volunteers. Whether it’s helping out in the classroom, assisting with school events, or providing support with administrative tasks, family volunteers can make a significant impact on the day-to-day operations of the school. This can be especially important for schools with limited resources or staff, as family volunteers can help fill in gaps and provide much-needed support.
Learning at Home
Families can also support student learning at home by providing a supportive and engaging environment. This can include helping with homework, reading with their child, and providing opportunities for educational activities outside of school. When families are engaged in their child’s learning outside of school, it can help reinforce what students are learning in the classroom and lead to improved academic performance.
Positive School Culture
When families are involved in the school community, it can help create a positive and supportive school culture. This can include attending school events, participating in parent-teacher associations, and providing feedback to school administrators. When families feel invested in the school community, they are more likely to feel connected and engaged, which can help improve staff morale and lead to a more positive overall school environment.
Improved Student Outcomes
When families are engaged in their child’s education, it can lead to improved student outcomes. According to research from the National Center for Family and Community Connections with Schools, family involvement in education is associated with higher grades, better test scores, and higher rates of graduation. When families are supportive and engaged in their child’s education, it can help reinforce the importance of academic achievement and lead to improved student performance.
Greater School Support
Finally, when families are supportive and engaged in their child’s education, it can make families your biggest allies to help improve staff satisfaction and support. When families are involved in the school community, they can help advocate for the needs of students and staff, and provide feedback that can help improve the overall school environment. This can lead to increased staff morale and a greater sense of support and community within the school.
Families are the biggest allies for K-12 schools in supporting student learning and success. When families are involved and engaged in their child’s education, it can lead to improved academic outcomes, a more positive school culture, and greater staff support. Schools can help foster family engagement by providing opportunities for volunteering, engaging families in learning at home, and creating a welcoming and inclusive school community. By working together, families and schools can help ensure that all students have the support they need to achieve their full potential.