A surprising number of them told me that they think high school students do not take tests seriously when they do not influence grades and college admission. Nonetheless, states and school districts must continue to raise standards of academic achievement and assess students based on these challenging standards. Students should be encouraged to take demanding courses.
Parental involvement is certainly a key factor in student achievement.
Studies have shown that a parent's involvement in his or her child's education tends to taper off after the elementary grades. This is very unfortunate. Parents need to stay active in the schools throughout the middle level and high school years. As you imply, parental involvement is also a critical factor in student achievement - some studies have indicated it is the most influential factor in a child's academic career. Unfortunately, in today's school system, parents can find it difficult, if not impossible, to get involved in their child's education at the school and district level.