Parental Involvement definitely is a necessity to help students with their education. Studies have shown that family members are starting to “catch on” to the importance of establishing a personal role in their child’s education. Many times education especially reading is left upon the teachers and programs at the schools either because of business with work or other functions. And because of that parents are not as involved with activities in the school or with the teachers.
According to one study within the article, families defined parental involvement as who works with the teacher and continues learning activities at home. The goal is to have parents partner with the schools and the teachers to help with the child’s education. Everything should not just be left up to the teachers just because that is what they are certified to do. I thought it was very interesting that no matter the background of the child, at 9 months they all demonstrate the same academic potential. However, White children are FAR MORE prepared for school that children of other cultural or ethnic populations. I thought it was also interesting that studies do prove that children living in a two-parent home have done better in school than children living in a single parent home. But its not so much that that there are two parents there that makes the difference but it’s having someone that will take the time and the effort to help and be with the child.
Some other factors that may interfere with the parents being involved with their children’s education are socioeconomic status, self-efficacy and language. Even though there may be certain barriers and obstacles that keep different family members from being involved in theirchildren’s education, it’s going to take much time and effort and sacrifice on anyone to make it their personal role regardless of background or barriers. In order for school and parent partnerships to work, both sides have to address the complex and difficult issues such as bias, the needs of the child (not just academic), and effective or ineffective strategies.
Some other sources that address the issues of parental involvement are:
The Effects of Parental Involvement on Minority Children’s Academic Achievement
http://www.sagepub.com/vaughnstudy/articles/dair/Jeynes.pdf
When Everyone Is Involved: Parent’s and Communites In School Reform
http://inpathways.net/6parents.pdf
The Relationship Between Parental Involvement and Student Motivation
