Directly related to the challenge of increasing student performance is the challenge of bringing the benefits of the latest research to classroom teachers. Instructional strategies that have been successful elsewhere must be identified, verified and implemented. If we are to raise test scores, we must be willing to embrace change and be eager to adopt new approaches. Sadly, if we do what we have always done, we will get what we have always gotten. Increasing parent and community involvement in our schools is closely related and integral to the challenge of improved student outcomes.
Parental involvement is critical to student progress and the attainment of academic goals.
The parent who spends time each night checking homework assignments or devotes a half-hour every day to reading with his or her child is an active partner. The simple investment of time and concern speaks volumes to a child. We are also looking to the broader community for its involvement and support. When I arrived in the district last year, I issued a call for 10,000 mentors. Today, I reissue the invitation to all community members who care about children.