Community and family involvement in student learning has many positive outcomes, such as lower absenteeism, increased student achievement, better staff and community engagement, fewer discipline issues, and improved school reputation. Developing alliances between communities, families and schools alliances can foster partnerships and opportunities to support students. Students can gain confidence and improve their academic performance when supported by their family and the community, and school districts can work toward equitable outcomes.
The online Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Educational Leadership – Professional Track program from Southeastern Oklahoma State University prepares educators to take on leadership roles, such as a school principal. For aspiring leaders interested in promoting success within their school district by achieving community involvement, this online degree program may be an excellent choice.
How Can Principals Increase Community Involvement in Schools?
The importance of family and community involvement in schools is well documented and supported by educational associations as well as the U.S. Department of Education. Yet fostering healthy, collaborative relationships between schools, families and the community can prove difficult. To meet the challenges of school-family-community involvement, here are three ways that school principals and administrators can promote engagement:
1. Increased Communication
Increased communication and transparency start with those in leadership roles. Communicating via social media or other online sources is one step towards school transparency. Staff should endeavor to determine where family and community members communicate and interact, be it online, over the phone, in community meetings, at sporting events or otherwise. Educational leaders should focus family and community communications on those channels, meeting people where they spend their time.
A school can demonstrate it’s open-mindedness, share sources of inspiration, provide a peek into daily activities, and share messages from teachers and administrators. This openness can help the school connect with parents and community members, encouraging public interest and excitement.
2. Active Engagement With Students and the Community
Students who actively engage in the learning process demonstrate curiosity about the topic at hand. In turn, curiosity and student-led inquiry are key drivers of engagement. Student engagement and interest begins when they feel comfortable and safe speaking out in class and taking risks.
A trusting classroom begins with community relationships that foster security and enhance real-world skills. Building trust and genuine respect with community and family can help students feel safe in school and supported by their teachers, engendering the educational and emotional environment needed for authentic engagement.
3. Cultural Awareness
When a principal encourages and promotes cultural awareness, they can create an inclusive setting for students, family and community members from all backgrounds. This facilitates a safe and supportive environment for communication and engagement in and out of the classroom.
By creating a safe space, students can learn without fear of bullying or harassment. They may also feel more comfortable making positive relationships with other students and staff, and encourage their families to do the same. Fostering a culturally responsive school environment creates a space of inclusivity, which improves students’ academic outcomes and helps schools work toward educational equity.
Why Is Community Involvement Important in Schools?
Community and family involvement can improve student learning outcomes, bridge home and school life to support more out-of-school learning opportunities, aid teachers in understanding students’ backgrounds and learning needs, and much more. Schools that have engaging relationships with community members and families help parents feel comfortable interacting with educators and administrators. These connections result in a positive relationship between school and home.
Definitive datasets and statistics from myriad studies show parental engagement is a vital component to a student’s success. Consistent parental involvement can yield positive results in areas like student retention, academic achievement, participation in top-level programs and graduation rates.
Notably, the data that educators have on the relationship between parental and community involvement and student success provides crucial insights for educational leaders. Today’s most effective principals leverage available data to inform decision-making and school improvement efforts. In terms of family involvement, school leaders can analyze data to understand both why involvement is important and how to best encourage and increase positive engagement.
Ways to Promote Community Involvement Programs and Opportunities
Educational leaders can connect with local businesses, organizations and charities to foster relationships. They can also encourage community members to share information with students and staff about their careers, lives, struggles, advancements and inspirations.
Participating in before- and after-school programs to assist with tutoring may interest some family and community members. Some might like offering assistance with the physical education department, coaching a school team, or providing tips to students interested in art and music.
For families or community members with limited availability who might not be able to physically participate, leaders can provide opportunities for donating materials and supplies or funding sponsorships and special programs. This is a good way to secure funding for school initiatives and programs or source needed items like electronics, sports equipment, uniforms, musical instruments or classroom technology.
Strong community and familial involvement with a school positively impacts student success and well-being. An advanced education degree in educational leadership can equip professionals with the tools and skills to drive family engagement and build rich community relationships.
Learn more about Southeastern’s online M.Ed. in Educational Leadership – Professional Track program.