Perceptions of Parental Involvement

This study examined the impact of a Family Math Night on preservice teach-ers ’ perceptions of low-income parents and their engagement in their chil-dren’s education. Participants were enrolled in an elementary mathematics methods course; one section served as the treatment group. Participants were required to aid in the planning and implementation of a Family Math Night held at a school serving a predominantly African American, high-poverty community. Results of a pre- and post-survey analysis indicate that the treat-ment group had more positive perceptions of parental involvement overall. These results were not sustained 1 year later, suggesting important implica-tions for mathematics teacher educators