By Dr. Annette Weissman, Principal SIB Community School
Parent Involvement! Why is it important to your child? Why is it important to your school? The answer is rather short and simple, yet many parents do not heed the message. I’d like to explore this topic with you and encourage you to reflect and then act on the words.
It is an accepted fact that parental involvement is an enhancing and motivating factor in your child’s education. The National Coalition for Parent Involvement in Education reports that:
- Students do better in school and life if their parents are involved. The students are more likely to earn higher grades and test scores and continue their education longer
- Parents become empowered when they are involved. Parents develop more confidence in themselves and become more active in the community as well as the school
- Schools get better when parents are involved because the performance of the children improves and the communication between the home and school increases
- Teachers are happier and feel supported when parents are involved
According to a National Parent Teacher Association publication, parent involvement is crucial to the health and well-being of a child. Parent involvement not only helps students achieve at a higher level, it helps them navigate some of the challenges of growing up.
At SIBCS, we have many parents who are involved in the school. Let me share some of the thoughts expressed by parent s currently involved with the SIBCS PTSA and other community agencies. They can say it best!
“My children are so proud when they see me serving food at a breakfast or incentive party.”
“As a member of the PTSA I receive weekly calendars that tell me what is happening in the school that week and email reminders about special events. Best $10.00 I ever spent!”
“I enjoy chaperoning field trips and experiencing these special events with my children. They are always so happy that I am with them and it gives me a better understanding of what they are learning.”
“As a working mom, I can’t volunteer at school during the day, but my children hear me making phone calls reminding parents about meetings. They understand that I am helping out in my own way.”
Very often parents of middle school students are less involved and this is such a disservice to the children and the school. The stakes are high in the middle grades as students make personal and educational decisions with serious consequences. Parents of middle school students must be involved in the school’s efforts to support these students through the social and emotional challenges of middle school.
This year SIBCs recognized Ms. Natalie Daly, President, as the Volunteer of the Year and Laurie and Irwin Wax as the Very Involved Family of the Year. These individuals have given most generously of themselves throughout the year attending local and regional meetings, organizing and working at school events such as book fairs and dances, and serving on school and community boards. We sincerely appreciate their hard work on behalf of our children, families, and school.
Now it is your time to make a difference. The Sunny Isles Beach Community School PTSA is holding the annual election of officers at its May 4th meeting. Make a commitment to yourself and your family to attend the meeting and get involved. Sign up to serve on a committee, agree to make some phone calls, or offer to help with flyers. Today is the perfect day to tell your children that they can count on you to support them and their school.
