We're In This Together: Teachers, Parents and Businesses Work Together to Shape Future
"It takes an entire village to raise a child." That's an old proverb that is being quoted more and more often these days. And I'm pleased about that. I'm even more pleased that our schools are acting on the implicit advice in that proverb.
Today, more and more schools are reaching out to involve parents, community members and businesses to help shape a child's future.
Parents need to be involved in their children's education in many ways. Helping children with homework and studying, becoming a class parent, going on a field trip, teaching a craft or coaching a child's sports team are all great ways to be involved with your child's education. And don't forget to communicate with teachers they need and respect your input. Parents will see a world of difference in their child's school work when they're involved. Studies show that children learn more and schools function better when parents and schools work together. And parental involvement is as critical in high school as it is in elementary school. Don't drop out. It's important to stay in touch with your child's education all through his or her school career.
Communities can help children create and achieve new goals. Mentor a child. Help with homework, read to a child, coach a children's team, or provide emotional support. Mentors can help solve problems and build self-esteem. Kids need role models and mentors can be role models by sharing their experiences and wisdom. Get in touch with a local community organization or the school guidance department . Both can serve as great resources for matching mentors and young people.
Businesses can also help shape our children's future. Invite a class from your local school to visit your workplace. You may be providing a glimpse that opens a new world of possibilities. Show students what goes on during a typical day Give a mini course: how to use a computer; how products are made; how machinery works just shared knowledge. You may have a developing electrician, teacher, nurse, or even a newspaper reporter on your hands. Businesses can adopt schools, share expertise with students, donate money or needed materials, act as mentors to youngsters or offer training internships for students.
It really does take an entire village to raise a child. So share the responsibility and the joy of bringing a child to his or her full potential.
