Partners,
Supports and Advisors
Research indicates that community involvement in schools increases student achievement (Henderson & Berla, 1994; Ballen & Moles, 1994; Epstein, 1995). The benefits of community, parent and family involvement include higher grades and test scores, better attendance, more completion of homework, increased positive attitudes and behavior, higher graduation rates, and greater enrollment in higher education. A literature review of school-family partnerships indicates that benefits are apparent not only for younger children, but all students through high school. Although parent involvement is typically strongest at the primary level, continued involvement through the middle grades and at the secondary school level is important in encouraging and guiding children's development and achievement.
At Freedom Academy Charter School, we regard our relationship with families and the community as a partnership in which home and school share responsibility for children's learning. The result is an increase in the levels and types of parent involvement, as well as the support that the community demonstrates for the school. When this partnership is extended to include the global community, the benefits are greater still. Perhaps most important is that when responsibility for children's learning is shared by the home, school, and community, the children have greater opportunities for meaningful, more engaged learning, and are able to see the connection between the curriculum in the school and the skills that are required in the real world.
To become a partner with our school, feel
free to contact
us or make a donation via our
Capital
Campaign page. |
