With the 89th annual American Education Week (November 14–20) drawing to a close, I find myself reflecting on the significance of the endeavor’s mission – which is to spotlight the importance of providing every child in the county with a quality public education. While the week-long celebration commemorates partnerships between teachers, support staff, students, parents and the community, it also underscores the need for everyone to do his or her part in making our public schools the best they can be.
As professional educator, I am trained to know my role within the world of academia and what is expected. As a parent, my responsibilities are not so clear-cut. The question is…how do I, as a parent, make sure my children are receiving the best possible education? While it took some refection on my part, I believe the answer is… to continually advocate for my children to the very best of my ability!
Ok, so where to begin? For starters, it’s my responsibility to elect public officials who will implement those educational initiatives that best serve my local school district. In terms of more specific measures, I must keep an open line of communication with my children’s teachers, diligently monitor their academic progress, observe them in the classroom, and continuously expand on what they are learning in class.
If we as parents do our very best to stay involved in our children’s education and advocate on their behalf, not only will they thrive but our school systems will flourish as well. Just as we hold our children accountable for their actions, we should hold our schools to that same level of accountability. To that end, we also need to acknowledged administrators and educators who uphold high standards and continuously strive to make a difference in the lives of their students.
So, while they say it takes a village to raise a child, the same holds true when it comes to education. Teachers, politicians, school administrators, and guidance counselors alike all have a role in shaping our children’s future. It’s our responsibility as parents to join them in their efforts!
I’d love to hear some feedback/viewpoints from other parents, caregivers and educators on this topic.