Guides Non-Classroom Use (055) Reports

Reluctance to recognize the importance of parents in the education process has been overcome in the past few years. Consequently, states are searching for and implementing programs that involve parents in education. A survey of educators in the Midwest revealed strong support for parent involvement among teachers, principals, and superintendents. An unstable family life and lack of parent involvement were cited often as barriers to education. As the American family changes, it is increasingly difficult for parents to find time to be involved in education. Although parent involvement can take many forms and levels, it should be well planned, comprehensive, and continuous. Parent involvement can result in higher grades and test scores, improved student attitudes, better academic programs, and more effective schools. States can encourage parent involvement in several ways: develop a parent involvement policy, include paren:: involvement in teacher education, includ