Parents as Partners in RtI: Community Blog
- Waukegan Public Schools 2012-2014
- Nov 8, 2012
- 2 min read
A monthly newsletter published on Jack Benny's School website. The newsletter had various topics which discussed the importance of parents in education and how they can help their student's learning.

Parents as Partners in RtI
“Small deeds done are better than great deeds planned.”
~Peter Marshall
Diana Sarlitto
External Coach
What does being a partner truly mean? By definition from Merriam Webster, it can mean, “one that shares”, “one associated with another especially in an action: associate, colleague” or “a member of a partnership, especially in a business”. However one chooses to define it, being a partner means a shared relationship. Your child is not the only one who should be actively involved in their education, as parents, you should be as well.
How does one become an active partner with their child? Take a genuine interest in their education; simply asking how your child’s day went, is not enough. Ask to see their work, their school planner and their grades. Take the time to sit down with them or while doing tasks at home, have those active conversations with your child. If they are reluctant to share, do not be discouraged because persistence is the key. Besides simply talking with your child, you can:
1. Have family discussion of books, newspapers, magazines, and TV programs.
2. Have family visits to libraries, museums, zoos, etc.
3. Encourage them to try new words.
4. Have a formal study time at home.
5. Provide a quiet place to study and read.
6. Show family interest in hobbies, games, and activities of educational value.
7. Give priority to schoolwork and reading over television and recreation.
8. Help your children pack backpacks each night with everything they need for school.
9. Emphasize good study habits and a good attitude toward school.
10. Praise your child for real effort and good attitudes about schoolwork.
11. Parental knowledge and discussion of what is being watched on TV and computers.
12. Parental knowledge of school achievement and personal growth. *
While experimenting with all of your options to engage in an active partnership with your child, the importance of also nurturing your partnership with the school will become evident. Your child wants you to start, continue and maintain a relationship, and so does their school. In the next issue of Parents As Partners in RtI, you will find answers with more information, tips and suggestions on how you can be an active partner with your child’s school.
*Tips taken from the Academic Development Institute.
For more tips, visit: http://www.schools.utah.gov/fsp/Home/ED-Guide-for-Parents-pdf.aspx

Comments