Just Do It!

Today, I want to give you a pep talk. And I am going to use an often over-quoted saying, “Just Do It”. But there is no better way to talk about parent involvement.

November 15 is nationally noted as a day to celebrate the importance role parents play in their child’s education. But I challenge that our children need their parents involved in their lives and especially their education every day. So, in C-FB, we proclaim that every day is Parent Involvement Day.

Judy Molland writes in the national PTA article, Tips on Getting Involved in School, “The research is in, and the results are conclusive: students whose parents are actively involved in their education do better at school, regardless of their family income and background. Specifically, students with involved parents have greater academic success, better attitudes about school, and fewer behavioral problems. This makes sense, since parents are the central figures in the lives of their children.”

As a parent, I want what is best for my own two sons. I know that most parents feel the same way but sometimes you don’t know how to become involved. The award-winning Parent Teacher Association (PTA) in C-FB ISD exists to help parents connect to their child’s education. The national PTA has provided tips to help parents become partners with the school in their child’s education. The pamphlet “100 Ways to Help Your Child and School Succeed” provides valuable tips. I encourage you to read the brochure and try a few. Here are some:

• Share your child’s strengths, talents, and interests with teachers. 
• Share expectations and set goals for your child with his or her teacher. 
• Attend parent-teacher conferences with specific questions you want to ask. 
• Ask teachers or school counselors about how to talk with your child about tough topics. 
• Seek out classes or information on child development, learning styles, discipline, etc. 
• Attend parent education fairs and other special events at school. 
• Start a parent book club to discuss current publications. 

I encourage you to join the PTA on your child’s campus and get involved. As the commercial says, “Just Do It!”

100 Ways to Help Your Child and School Succeed