The National Educational Goals Panel proposed, "By the year 2000, every school will promote partnerships that will increase parental involvement and participation in promoting the social, emotional, and academic growth of children"

Sample Solution

1. Research Support for the 2000 Goal

While the 2000 goal aimed to increase parental involvement, a comprehensive review of research suggests that while progress has been made, the goal has not been fully realized.

Factors influencing the level of parental involvement include:

• Socioeconomic Status: Parents from lower socioeconomic backgrounds often face barriers such as lack of time, transportation, and education, which can hinder their ability to engage in school activities.
• Cultural Differences: Cultural differences can influence communication styles and expectations between parents and schools.
• School Climate: A positive and welcoming school climate can encourage parental involvement.

While there is evidence of increased parental involvement in certain areas, such as volunteering and attending school events, deeper levels of engagement, such as participating in decision-making processes and advocating for children's education, remain less common.

Full Answer Section

2. Responding to Skepticism About Family and Community Partnerships

To respond to someone who doubts the importance of family and community partnerships, one could emphasize the following points:

• Enhanced Student Achievement: Research consistently shows a strong correlation between parental involvement and student achievement. Parents who are engaged in their children's education can positively impact their academic performance, behavior, and social skills.
• Improved School Climate: Family and community partnerships can contribute to a positive school climate, which benefits all students. Involved parents can help create a supportive and nurturing environment that fosters learning and growth.
• Increased Community Support: Strong partnerships between schools and communities can lead to increased support for education, such as funding for programs and resources.

3. Scholarly Support

Epstein, J. L. (1995). School, family, and community partnerships: Caring for the children we share. Phi Delta Kappan, 76(9), 701-718.*

Epstein's seminal work highlights the importance of family and community partnerships in improving student outcomes. The article provides a framework for understanding different types of parental involvement and offers practical strategies for building strong partnerships between schools, families, and communities.