PTA/School Partnerships Bring Academic Success
Two leading national education experts confirmed today that when families partner with schools, children succeed despite their income, age, or background. At the PTA's National Back to School Media Briefing, Karen Mapp , Ed.D., a leading education researcher on school, family and community partnerships and lecturer at the Harvard Graduate School on Education and PTA Chief Executive Officer Warlene Gary called on the education community to help lead family involvement efforts.
"No matter what the demographics, students are more likely to earn higher grades and test scores, attend school regularly, have better social skills, graduate and go on to post-secondary education when schools and families partner," said Mapp.
Researchers from around the country continue to affirm these findings for students from kindergarten through 12th grade, whose own research focuses on urban, rural and economically disadvantaged communities. In addition, schools are under increasing pressures by the No Child Left Behind Act to create programs that involve families in their children's education in order to raise student achievement.
"We now know what practices make a difference in engaging parents, families and communities in the educational process, and it's not simply holding more events at school," said Gary. "Instead, it's about reaching out to families in their own homes and communities to build relationships and earn trust."
Gary agreed that effective programs embrace a philosophy of partnership. Part of this process for schools includes welcoming families and making them feel comfortable as part of the school community, honoring and affirming any type of involvement or contributions families can make, and putting children at the center of educational issues.
PTA comprises nearly 6 million parents and other concerned adults devoted to the educational success of children and the promotion of parent involvement in schools. PTA is a registered 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization that prides itself on being a powerful voice for children, a relevant resource for parents, and a strong advocate for public education. Membership in PTA is open to anyone who is concerned with the education, health, and welfare of children and youth. Contact your child's school and attend and support your local PTA. It is your voice and resource.
Parent and Teacher Organization
The Jasper County School District recognizes the necessity and value of parents' involvement to support student success and academic achievement.
We encourage parents to attend parenting workshops provided at all schools and public forums provided throughout the district.
During the 2004-05 school year the Parenting Program provided the following:
- Public Forum - 4
- Parenting Workshops - 115
- Number enrolled in Parent and Student Succeeding Program (PASS) - 92 families.
- Services provided to Day Cares - 10
- Total number of Newsletters and instruction packets distributed to families in the parenting program - 1225
Volunteer programs exist at all four schools. 150 volunteers supported our schools during the school year. We send special "Thanks" to our 25 business partners and community volunteers.
The total number of Collaborative Partnerships in the Jasper County School District is 4.
