Parents are a child first teacher, and play a vital role throughout their child’s formal education. Healthy relationships between home and school contribute to student achievement. Regardless of socioeconomic level, ethnic/racial background, or parents’ education level, students do better academically when their families are involved in learning.

 

In the most effective schools go beyond purely academic matters when it comes to bridging home and school. In the most effective relationship between home and school, parents and other community agencies should work together to address problems that are uniquely school based. Drug use, bullying  , and gang activity, these are all serious problems where the school can contribute to the solution, but the school can’t solve them alone. In an ideal situation, the community as a whole works as a team to give solution to the problem and create a better environment for learning and for a better society.

 

We as educators should build trust and personal relationships with families. Let’s make outreach to all families connect to needed supports and services for their children’s learning, help families connect to other families. For families who have not had positive experiences with school in the past, it may take time to build trust and establish a positive school-family relationship. Teachers should also encourage two way communications. Open avenues for parents to ask questions, make suggestions and stay informed about their child’s school day. Use technologies like cellular phones and emails to communicate families.

 

Remember, good relationship between School and Home contribute to students’ achievement and success.

By: JASMIN B. DUNO | Teacher III | MARIVELES NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL-CABCABEN