They see individuals as the leading force of change in their communities, even more so than businesses and government. Accordingly, respondents identified a range of initiatives in which they'd be willing to participate, including voting in school board elections, mentoring and tutoring students, and repairing schools. Support for public schools and the sentiment for greater involvement are consistent across all ages, income levels, and racial and ethnic backgrounds and among those with and without school-age children. With the fast pace of today's world, Americans increasingly seem to have little free time. They look at time as something to be invested wisely that will make a difference in the lives of young people.
Schools make some parents uncomfortable.
Some people feel schools exclude them. In addition to the sense of alienation that exists among some parents, a significant number of people say they feel extraneous to school activities and unwelcome as volunteers. In fact, if I did show any interest, I'd be afraid they'd lock me up. People don't know how to get involved. Many people say they don't have the information they need to participate in school activities or don't have the know-how to organize behind worthy causes.