Partnerships among schools, families and the community are essential for the success of our students. By coming together at ParentCamp, we have the chance to model the four core beliefs that are outlined in "Beyond The Bake Sale."
The Four Core Beliefs
1. Parents Have Dreams for Their Children and Want the Best for Them Parents have aspirations for their children and they know that schools will play a vital role in helping their children to succeed. Knowing that families want the best for their children is the first step in cultivating and maintaining strong relationships.
2. All Parents Have the Capacity to Support Their Children's Learning Parents truly are their children's first teachers. They have a sizable fund of knowledge about their children that can inform the work of teachers. Parents also have special skills and knowledge that they can share. Schools need to let parents know that they have something to offer and to provide opportunities for parents to share their knowledge.
3. Parents and School Staff Should Be Equal Partners There should be a mutual relationship between school and parents. Everyone who is interested in supporting children's development should have equal status, value and responsibility.
4. Responsibility for Building Partnerships Between School and Home Rests Primarily with School Staff, Especially School Leaders Teachers, staff and school leaders need to create a climate that supports partnerships with parents and become advocates for family involvement.