Increasing parental involvement at the secondary level

Parental involvement in schools is important in bridging the gap between school and home. Researchers have determined when parents are active partakers in school activities and functions, the performance of all students within the school, not just their own, tend to improve. School personnel must be proactive and create opportunities for parents to volunteer within the school. Many schools across the United States have developed parent volunteer programs. According to the research, one of the greatest hindrances to parent involvement is teacher's attitudes sometimes, especially in lower socioeconomic areas, teachers feel that a large majority of parents do not show they are concerned about their children's education, especially at the high school level, so they equate lack of involvement with lack of interest. Because of those unspoken views and attitudes, parents often feel unwelcomed immediately once entering the school building. How does a school combat that? By always exhibiting an open, friendly, and welcoming attitude, which in turn will change parent's perceptions and make them feel welcomed and valued. Therefore, schools should plan and organize thoroughly how they will utilize parents as volunteers and convey that information to parents at the start of the school year and continually throughout the school year. This report outlines the development of a professional product, a Parent Volunteer Handbook, which will address the many ways in which parents can become volunteers within their children's schools and assist with meeting the goals and objectives of the school.