All parents want their children to do well. I surely do. Every single parent I’ve met feels the same way.
One way our children succeed is by doing better in the classroom—believe it or not, that’s where the parents come in. Parents need to be more involved in their child’s education.
The research conducted right here in Southern California by a coalition of groups devoted to education tells an important story. The more parents are engaged in their child’s education, the greater chances he or she will have for academic success.
At the Compton Unified School District we absolutely believe this to be true; an important truth that can, if we all work together, improve the lives of our students by making school a place where they can succeed. It is true for everyone, regardless of ethnicity, age, geography, income or a parent’s education: Engaged parents are vital for student success.
And in Compton Unified, we don’t just talk about parent engagement—we’ve put it into action.
Director of Special Projects-Greg Odom, and our Parent Involvement Coordinator Adriana Real, have put together an amazing team of community relations specialists at all of the Compton schools — people who are on the front line of our parent engagement efforts.
There’s Claudia Soto at Mayo Elementary School, who is featured on our community and district websites. This video shows her work as an example of how Compton Unified is working to make sure that parents are true partners in their children’s success in school.
We know that parents are busy — often both parents work and if there’s only one parent in the house, that person is even busier. So you can’t always come to meetings or events. There are still many ways for parents to get involved and support their child’s education.
You can also call Adriana Real at our Parent Center, (310) 639-4321, ext. 54894. She and her staff will help you with questions you may have.
You also can contact your child’s teacher or principal (I strongly encourage you to do that anyway. You’ll find someone who is trying to help your child and the more they know you the better it is for your child).
For our Spanish speaking parents, let me also suggest this Univision website which is designed specifically to show parents how to get involved — tips, classes, online resources, experts, and videos.
There are many good things happening in the Compton schools. Our students are doing much better in the classroom, our graduation rates are increasing, we have had schools recognized for state and national awards, and there is optimism that we can continue and accelerate this turnaround in the months and years to come.
We can get there if our parents are part of the journey.
Get involved! It’s good for you, your child, and our schools.