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.
Several obstacles stand in the way of school-family partnerships.
Other parents lack confidence when it comes to helping their children academically. In addition, parents whose own school experience during childhood was unpleasant or unsuccessful may still view school-based education in a negative light. Parents themselves may be uneasy about the extent of their involvement in schools. School personnel have their own misconceptions. In addition, some teachers prejudge certain parents as unwilling or unable to help their children academically.