In Claiborne County, families, school staff and community members have worked to foster strength-based partnerships throughout the school district. This teamwork has been successful in supporting and empowering students. These partnerships have utilized assets available in the schools, the students’ homes and within the community to create strengths that are enhancing the classroom environment. These partnerships have also promoted caring relationships which have, in turn, strengthened the students’ social support networks while fostering academic success. School families within the district, have a sense of purpose and a common goal which is to develop each and every student to their fullest potential.

As everyone works together to build high achieving school environments and positive family supports, it is very evident that, “It takes a village to raise a child”. The Claiborne County Board of Education and all school system employees are looking forward to building a bright future for our students and increasing parent engagement as the new year approaches. Parent Engagement is one of — if not the — leading factor contributing to student success. A well built network of support for each and every student will be crucial as the year progresses. Working together, we will make a difference.

WAYS TO STAY ACTIVELY ENGAGED AS A PARENT IN YOUR CHILD’S EDUCATION

At the beginning of the school year, attend the school back-to-school night or other orientation events.

• Get to know the teachers and other school personnel.

• Share your goals and listen to their plans for your child’s education.

Attend school events.

• Go to sports events, concerts, student exhibitions, parent-teacher meetings, parents’ nights, awards events and “perfect attendance” celebrations.

Learn what the school offers

• Read the information the school sends home and the school’s webpage for helpful information.

• Talk to school staff and other parents to find out what programs are available.

Attend parent organization meetings.

• Meetings give you a good chance to talk with other parents and to work together to improve the school, as well as, the chance to voice your hopes and concerns for the school.

Volunteer in your child’s school.

• If your schedule permits, look for ways to help out at your child’s school.

• Volunteers are often needed to chaperone field trips or dances or help in concession stands.

• Serve on the school committees or advisory councils as a parent representative.

• Help on projects the school has in progress. A teacher or the principal will be glad to have the help.

• Volunteer to tutor students in areas such as reading, math, English, Spanish, computer skills, or other subjects.

• Work in a parent resource center or help start one. Here, parents may gather informally, borrow materials on parenting and children’s schoolwork and get information about community services.

If work or other commitments make it impossible for you to volunteer in the school, look for other ways to help.

• Volunteer to be a parent mentor for a family who may need assistance.

• Keep communication lines open with your child’s classroom teacher. Teachers are very willing to meet with parents when work schedules vary.