August 15, 2023
Parents as Obstacles to Education?
By Shawn A. Means
Decades of research into children's educational achievement repeatedly demonstrate the absolute necessity of parental engagement. Ranging from 1966 with the classic Coleman report to 2007 with a longitudinal NICHD study, parents and the family are by far the most influential elements determining educational outcomes.
In fact, the NEA itself in 2006 called for including parents and training for teachers in the process. Particularly, respectful engagement is key:
"Respectful relationships where power is shared between school staff and family members provide the glue that holds the community together and positively influences parents' involvement."
—Karen Mapp, 2003
Indeed, some teachers and schools go to great lengths for parental engagement, providing online access to student grades, attendance, and behavior reports as well as resources and assignments. Regular email, voicemail, and text notifications keep parents informed while smartphone apps permit ongoing conversations.
https://www.americanthinker.com/articles/2023/08/parents_as_obstacles_to_education.html