Policy 1215: Parent Involvement Policy:

II. Although parents are diverse in culture, language and needs, they share this school system's commitment to the educational success of their children. The school district and the schools within its boundaries, in collaboration with parents, shall establish programs and practices that enhance parent involvement and reflect the specific needs of students and their families.

III. To this end, this Board of Education supports the development, implementation and regular evaluation of a parent involvement program in each school, which will involve parents at all grade levels in a variety of roles. The parent involvement programs will be comprehensive and coordinated in nature. They will include, but not be limited to, the following components of successful parent involvement programs:

A. Communication between home and school is regular, two way and meaningful.

B. Responsible parenting is promoted and supported.

C. Parents play an integral role in assisting student learning.

D. Parents are welcome in the school, and their support and assistance are sought.

E. Parents are full partners in the decisions that affect children and families.

F. Community resources are made available to strengthen school programs, family practices and student learning.

IV. The Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Board of Education supports professional development opportunities for staff members to enhance understanding of effective parent involvement strategies. This Board also recognizes the importance of administrative leadership in setting expectations and creating a climate conducive to parental participation.

V. In addition to programs at the school level, the Board of Education supports the development, implementation and annual evaluation of a program to involve parents in the decisions and practices of this school district, using to the degree possible, the components listed above.

VI. Engaging parents is essential to improved student achievement. This school district shall foster and support active parent involvement. Parent participation in the education of their children will be supported at various levels of involvement. School parent involvement activities will include, but are not limited to: annual meetings; regular meetings; training opportunities; coordination with other programs; opportunities for involvement of limited English proficient parents and parents with disabilities; evaluation of parent involvement programs; opportunities to volunteer, participate and observe in class activities; school/parent Title I compact; and school policies.

- November, 2002