I am so excited to be the facilitator for the PACT-Parent University. The first session was held on October 30th with over 100 participants in attendance. (Parents, guardians, community members, teachers, and principals) The theme for the five workshop series is ‘Coaching Your Child to Academic Success’ which is the title of my new book. The topic for the October workshop was Parents as Partners; we focused on the three R’s of building a parent-school partnership. (Respect, Responsibility, Relationships). Parents were engaged in the lesson, offered great discussion, and participated in group activities. It was an awesome first session.
Parent University is a community collaborative led by Partners Achieving Community Transformation (PACT) and The Ohio State University to help parents become full partners in their children’s education. PACT partners with Columbus City Schools (7) Science Academies to offer free workshops, family events and activities that will equip families with new or additional skills, knowledge, resources and confidence.
The goals of Parent University are to provide a forum for education and dialogue, as well as increase parent involvement in the schools and empower parents to raise children who are successful in school, and in life. Workshops are held at Champion Middle School once a month from October – March. Workshops range from topics like Parent as Parents, Parents as Advocates, Parents as Coach, and Preparing Your Child to be College and Career Ready.
Research has shown that parents can increase a child’s academic success through their involvement with school and community. Parent involvement improves student morale, attitudes, and academic achievement across all subject areas.
Parent University occurs on a weekday evening; the last Monday of each month from 6-8 PM., dinner and childcare is provided.
After each session, participants offer feedback in a survey that asks them to identify something they liked about the session, two or three things they have learned or actions they will take immediately as a result of the class, how the session could be improved, and what they would like to learn more about.
If your child attends one of CCS seven science academies, please speak with a parent consultant to register for the next Parent University workshop on November 27, 2017. I hope to see you there!