Parent involvement

One of the things I'm realizing at my new school is how important parent involvement is in the educational process. Okay, okay I know that's a no-brainer. But the amazing difference it makes when a school requires parents to do volunteer hours, to come to meetings, to take part in their child's education is great to see. I still have behavior problems in my class, a few kids who are squirrely or loud, but not to the extent that you would have in schools in this same neighborhood. These kids know that there parents will hear about misbehavior. In fact, they may be in the classroom tomorrow, so they better straighten up. My kids come to school everyday with their agendas signed and their homework done (for the most part.) And it' s because most of them realize that it's required if they are going to stay at this school, and they know their parents will find out if anything isn't done. Since school let out yesterday, I've talked to four of my parents in person, because the parents feel comfortable coming on campus and having a chat with the teacher. I think that's a great start to a good education for their kids.