The process of creating partnerships varies greatly with regard to organization and structure, duration, and scope of interest. In some cases, coalitions represent a broad-based community effort to improve the school system as a whole. In other cases, they seek to accomplish special objectives or administer particular projects. In addition, under the Improving America's Schools Act, Title I requires local schools and districts to involve parents in improving student achievement, carrying out collaborative improvement projects and developing school policies. This increased interest in parental involvement recognizes the vital role that parents play in their children's educational attitude and outcomes.
Parents have a major influence on children's success in school and academic performance.
The program resulted in a significant improvement in reading achievement and vocabulary for students whose parents became more involved in their schooling. Research has found that children are more likely to get As in school and are less likely to be suspended or expelled when their fathers are highly involved in their schools. Students are not the only ones who benefit from parent involvement. Teachers may discover that after increased involvement in the classroom, parents have a new respect for the role teachers play and the impact they have on children. When Hara and Burke surveyed students about parental involvement, students said they wanted their parents to attend performances or athletic events, accompany them on field trips, serve as a resource for class activities, help with school fundraising programs, and take advantage of learning opportunities offered by the school.