November is Family Engagement in Education Month
November 1, 2016
DOE Press Office
850-245-0413
DOEPressOffice@fldoe.org
November is Family Engagement in Education Month
~ Focus on the important role parents and families play in their child's education ~
Tallahassee, Fla., November 1, 2016 – Today, Commissioner of Education Pam Stewart kicked off Family Engagement in Education Month at DeSoto Trail Elementary School in Tallahassee. Family Engagement in Education Month focuses on schools and families working together to support learning for every child. Commissioner Stewart was joined by Leon County Schools Superintendent Jackie Pons; School Board Members Georgia “Joy” Bowen, Maggie Lewis-Butler, and Alva Striplin; and Principal Michele Keltner, school officials, teachers, students, families and friends.
“We know there is a direct link between family engagement and high student achievement,” said Commissioner Stewart. “I encourage parents and families to get involved, stay informed and continue to make their children’s education a top priority.”
DeSoto Trail students began the program with a student-led Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a student choral performance. Parent Travis Miller provided a personal perspective on the impact of family engagement in academic success.
“We are honored to kick off the FDOE Parent Engagement Month at DeSoto Trail Elementary,” said Principal Keltner. “Parents are the support system that make our school successful for our students. They help us in so many ways, from school events to mentoring students, they are the heart of our school.”
Research shows that regardless of family income or background, students with involved parents and families are more likely to have:
- Higher grades, test scores and graduation rates
- Better school attendance
- Increased motivation and self-esteem
- Lower rates of suspension
- Decreased use of drugs and alcohol, and
- Fewer instances of violent behavior
DeSoto Trail Elementary School is a 2015-16 Region 1 winner of the Family and Community Engagement Award. The award recognizes exemplary school practices that focus on increasing family involvement, welcoming families into the local school system, providing effective communication, supporting student success, and promoting collaboration with the community.
The Department of Education’s Bureau of Family and Community Outreach works with families, school districts and community-based organizations to increase family engagement by identifying and sharing information and resources that will lead to student success.
The Family Engagement in Education Month Toolkit has numerous resources to help parents and families become more involved in their child’s education.
Read More News...