VOLUNTEER YOUR TIME

Research studies have consistently shown that high levels of student achievement are closely linked to positive parent participation. Many studies have also determined that positive self-esteem is also related to parent involvement. According to a recent study by the Los Angeles Annenberg Metropolitan Project, “…the evidence is beyond dispute; parent involvement improves student achievement. When parents are involved, children do better in school”.

A 1994 research study (Henderson & Berla) detailed the benefits to student, school and parent, including the following:

• Higher grades & test scores
• Better attendance
• More homework and home study completed
• Fewer placements in remedial programs
• More positive attitudes and behaviors
• Higher graduation rates
• Higher enrolment rates in post secondary education

These researchers also described some of the parent benefits as follows:

• Parents develop more confidence in the school
• Teachers have higher opinions of them as parents & consequently, higher expectations of their children
• Parents develop greater confidence helping their children learn at home
• Volunteering parents enroll more often in continuing education programs themselves

While there is little empirical evidence specifically related to single dad’s, the overwhelming research cannot be ignored. Whether the parent support and involvement comes from a traditional two-parent home, from single mom’s or dad’s, or any other adult in a parenting role there is a positive effect on the child. As long as there is an interest in maximizing school success, then the key is active, positive parent involvement. While the logistics of becoming actively involved may be more complicated for estranged parents, identifying events and activities can be as simple as a call to your child’s teacher.

Estranged parents can be faced with obstacles to their efforts to volunteer at their child’s school than others. Information from the classroom and school can sometimes be difficult to obtain. Most schools, however, can send copies of newsletters to out-of-town parents or to others having difficulty obtaining school information. Parents who are prepared to take the initiative to meet their child’s teacher to make sure their offers to assist are clearly understood will find opportunities to enrich their child’s school experience.

For those parents who have limited or occasional contact with their children the following suggestions might be available:

• Visit your child’s classroom to observe interactions with peers and other adults
• Volunteer to help in the classroom listening to children read or assisting in other class activities
• Support student performances, assisting where possible
• Contact your child’s teacher to identify activities and materials that complement school learning
• Join the school’s parent group
• Keep informed of major class and school events

Single parents that have limited contact with their children face unique challenges to become active in their child’s school experiences. Schools, their teachers and administrators, appreciate the value of active, positive parent involvement and will work with parents to remove barriers.

The secret begins with a call or a visit to your child’s school!

Robert J. Cook
Principal
Coal Tyee Elementary
Nanaimo, British Columbia

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