The CAEP’s 7 Elements of Effective Parent-Teacher Partnerships provide a framework for building effective communication, collaboration, and trust between families and educators. Firstly, regular and effective communication between families and educators is key to building trust and understanding. This can include regular updates on student progress, open communication channels, and opportunities for face-to-face meetings. Secondly, a warm and welcoming environment can help families feel comfortable and valued, and can foster a sense of belonging. This can be achieved through a welcoming attitude, clear signage, and inclusive language. Thirdly, sharing information about student progress, school policies, and other relevant information can help families understand the educational process and feel more involved in their child’s education (Frechette, 2019). Fourthly, gathering information from families can help educators understand the unique needs and perspectives of each student and family. This can be achieved through regular surveys, focus groups, and parent-teacher conferences.
In addition to the above four frameworks, there are other three that can promote partnerships to engage families. Collaborating with families to create an action plan can help set clear goals and expectations for student progress. This can include specific strategies and resources to support student success. Additionally, setting high expectations for students and families can help to promote engagement and a sense of ownership in the educational process. By setting and communicating high expectations, educators can create an environment where students and families feel motivated and empowered to achieve their goals. Moreover, being empathetic means understanding and being sensitive to the unique challenges and circumstances of each family (Frechette, 2019). Managing flow refers to how well educators are able to navigate and handle the different interactions and schedules of their families, this means being responsive and flexible with families in order to accommodate their needs and schedules.
Engaging families in students’ learning is a critical aspect of education as it can have a positive impact on student achievement, school engagement and overall well-being. Research has shown that when families are involved in their child’s education, students tend to have higher academic achievement, better attendance, and are more likely to graduate. Family engagement also leads to increased student engagement in school, as students are more likely to feel a sense of belonging and ownership in their learning. Furthermore, engaging families in their child’s learning can also improve communication between families and educators, leading to a better understanding of student needs and more effective teaching and learning (Frechette, 2019). Families play a critical role in supporting their child’s learning and development, and when they are engaged in their child’s education, they are more likely to provide a supportive home environment, which can help to improve student outcomes. Additionally, when families are engaged in their child’s education, students tend to exhibit better behavior and have fewer disciplinary issues. Lastly, engaging families from diverse backgrounds can also help educators gain a better understanding of the cultural backgrounds of their students, which can lead to more inclusive and effective teaching practices.
Inviting families to participate in their child’s learning is crucial to support student’s academic and social-emotional development. Educators can use several strategies to involve families such as regular communication, parent-teacher conferences, family events, volunteer opportunities, home visits, parent-teacher organizations, online communication and resources, student-led conferences, and translation and language support. Regular and effective communication with families is key to building trust and understanding (Frechette, 2019). Parent-teacher conferences provide an opportunity for families and educators to discuss student progress, set goals, and create an action plan. Family events like parent-teacher nights, open houses, and family literacy nights help to build community and engagement. Volunteer opportunities in the classroom or school can help to build a sense of ownership and engagement.
Reference
Frechette, L. R. (2019). Examining Teacher Candidates’ Dispositions and Dispositions on Future Action: A Pathway to Improved Parent-Teacher Partnerships. University of Hartford.