Parental Involvement in Standards-Based Education: Keeping Parents Informed
As the education system evolves and shifts towards a more rigorous and standardized approach, the role of parental involvement has become increasingly crucial. It is now more important than ever for parents to be informed and actively involved in their child’s education, especially when it comes to navigating the complexities of standards-based education. In this article, we will explore the importance of parental involvement in standards-based education and discuss practical ways to keep parents informed and engaged in their child’s academic journey.
The Impact of Standards-Based Education
In recent years, standards-based education has become the norm in many schools across the country. This approach to education is based on specific learning goals and expectations that students are expected to meet. These standards are used to guide instruction, assess student progress, and ensure that students are adequately prepared for higher education and the workforce.
While standards-based education has its benefits, it can also be overwhelming for both students and parents. The expectations and benchmarks set by these standards can be daunting, and parents may feel lost or confused about how to support their child’s learning. This is why parental involvement is critical in standards-based education.
The Importance of Parental Involvement
Research has consistently shown that parental involvement in education has a positive impact on a child’s academic performance. When parents are actively involved in their child’s education, students are more likely to have better attendance, higher grades, and a more positive attitude towards learning. Additionally, parental involvement has been linked to reduced behavioral issues and increased motivation among students.
Furthermore, in a standards-based education system, parental involvement is essential to ensure that students are meeting the learning goals and expectations set by these standards. Parents can provide valuable support and encouragement to their child, which can help them stay on track and reach their academic potential. Without parental involvement, students may struggle to meet these expectations, which could have long-term consequences on their academic and future success.
Practical Ways to Keep Parents Informed
Now that we understand the importance of parental involvement in standards-based education, let’s look at some practical ways to keep parents informed and engaged in their child’s education.
Regular Communication
Effective communication is key to keeping parents informed. Schools should establish regular communication channels with parents, such as newsletters, emails, or parent-teacher conferences. These updates should include information about the standards being taught, the student’s progress, and any academic or behavioral concerns. By keeping parents in the loop, they can better support their child’s learning and address any issues that arise.
Provide Resources
Parents who have a better understanding of standards-based education are better equipped to support their child’s learning. Schools should provide parents with resources, such as online guides or workshops, to help them understand the standards, learning expectations, and ways to support their child at home. This can also include tips on how parents can assist with homework and strategies to promote critical thinking skills at home.
Involve Parents in Decision Making
When parents are involved in decision-making processes, they feel more invested in their child’s education. Schools can involve parents in discussions and decisions regarding curriculum, instruction, and extracurricular activities. This not only keeps parents informed but also allows them to have a say in their child’s education.
Encourage Parental Involvement in School Activities
Schools can also encourage parental involvement by inviting parents to participate in school activities, such as career days, parent-teacher organizations, or volunteering in the classroom. This not only strengthens the partnership between home and school but also allows parents to see firsthand how standards-based education is implemented in the classroom.
In Conclusion
Parental involvement in standards-based education is essential for the academic success of students. By keeping parents informed and engaged, schools can foster a collaborative and supportive learning environment for students. It is crucial for schools to recognize and prioritize the role of parental involvement in this ever-evolving education system to ensure that students are adequately prepared for the future.
