New increased attention and resources are moving to empower the parents’ voice in schools as parents in their child’s education.

Research proves that a comprehensive approach to parent engagement has potential to have broad and significant impact in increasing academic achievement and providing more equity and access to quality education.

Reform can grow from a 21 st Century Parent Center that features the following:

Independent Parent Space

• Provide space for parent organizations to share ideas/strategies
• Provide advanced training to engage parents in reform
• Conduct independent analysis of policies affecting children/youth
• Provide forum for groups to advance a collective agenda

Parent Center As Hub For School Site

• Act as information clearinghouse
• Refer parents to appropriate parent organizations or social service agencies
• Research availability of data to parents and make recommendations
• Provide information to parent organizations
• Connect emerging parent groups with technical assistance

Parent Center As Learning Center

• Help parents navigate the school system
• Provide parent counseling
•  Provide parent leadership skills training