There are many reasons to build a strong partnership between home, school, and the community. Forming a partnership will improve school programs and school climate. Schools can help provide family services and support, increase parents' skills and leadership, and connect families with school staff and with other parents. The most important reason for creating partnerships is to help students succeed in school and later in life.
Why is Family Involvement Important?
Family involvement positively affects a child's:
Academic achievement
Behavior in school
Attitudes about school and work
Grades
Scores on standardized tests
Attendance
Homework completion
It provides:
Opportunity for teachers to explain curriculum, standards, and high stakes testing
A connection between what children learn at school with learning at home
Tools, training, and activities on how families can work with their children at home
It is required by legislation:
1965 Elementary and Secondary Education Act
Federal funds made available and Title I enacted into law
1994 Goals 2000: Educate America Act
Schools will promote partnerships with parents
1997 National PTA adopts Epstein's 6 types of involvement as national standards
2001 No Child Left Behind