As Congress moves forward on reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, it is critical that the bill provide for independent parent centers to assist families in meaningful parent involvement. We ask you to oppose the Administration's PIRC proposal, which would refocus the only program currently providing families with an independent source of support and information around ESEA, and make it a technical assistance and professional development center for schools and school districts. It is also critical that Congress boldly declare that parents deserve an independent voice in the educational process, and expand that opportunity by providing for Local Family Information Center grants, which would provide funding for local nonprofit parent centers.
Families are crucial to successful school reform.
When families are involved, students get higher grades and test scores, better attendance, fewer placements in special education, and higher graduation and postsecondary education rates. Often, though, parents need outside help to the get the information, support, and training they need to obtain reforms with the staying power to improve the learning environment for their children. Sometimes schools do not have the capacity or desire to provide all of the information parents need. Other times, parents simply need a neutral place to reach out to each other and to learn what they need to help their children meet high standards. Return the PIRCs to their original purpose, and provide for independent, Local Family Information Centers in this coming reauthorization.