Getting Involved

Students whose parents are involved in their child's education do better in school. It's a fact!

When considering parent involvement in school, most people think of the traditional volunteer opportunities such as working in the classroom, cafeteria or library, but there are many other ways to be involved with your child's education.

Volunteer opportunities abound in schools. Most schools have both long-term volunteer opportunities and one-time opportunities. Many one-time opportunities involve sharing your experience as a speaker at career day or working on a bulletin board for a special event.

Even if you work full-time during the school day there are many opportunities to get involved in your child's school. Check with your supervisor at work, many employers give employees time off with pay to volunteer at their child's school.

Volunteering at your child's school is not the only way to become involved in his/her education. Attend your school open house. There you can meet your child's teachers, guidance counselor and principal. Then if your child has a problem in school you will be able to put a face to a name. It also shows the teacher that you have an interest in your child's education.

If your child should have a problem in a particular subject, feel free to give the teacher a call. Most schools now have voice mail, so leave a message and the teacher will call you back after school or during a free period. You may also want to make contact with the GEAR UP staff in your school. They are available to help your child with school work and they can act as a liaison between you and the teacher.

Additional Resources

Springfield Parent Academy serves parents and families of Springfield, Massachusetts. It is a community-driven initiative designed to provide educational resources to help parents and caring adults become engaged in their child’s education. www.springfieldparentacademy.com