School-Family Partnerships
At Seattle Public Schools, we recognize that families are our most important partners in education. When schools and families establish respectful and collaborative relationships, students get better grades, have better attendance and behavior, complete more homework, and demonstrate a positive attitude toward education.
We are proud of the diversity of our students and families. Parents and family members are the most important role models and life-long teachers of our students and we work hard to build meaningful and culturally-inclusive partnerships with all of our families and their communities to ensure all students succeed in school, careers, and life. We invite you to partner with us and fully participate in the education of your children.
Families can help students succeed
The most important thing families can do to help their students succeed is to make learning a family priority.
There are many ways to show your student how deeply you believe in his/her ability to learn, work hard and successfully graduate from high school.
Here are some effective ways all families can participate in their students’ education:
Keep your student learning
- Read with your student every day, in English or your native language. Use books, billboards, food packages or whatever is around you. If you don’t feel comfortable reading, discuss picture books or photos, or have your child read to you.
- Make a regular time and space for homework every day.
- Reduce screen time. Turn off cellphones, video games and TV.
- Know what your student is learning in the classroom. Learn about it yourself.
- Make sure your student gets enough sleep each night and breakfast before school starts.
- Involve your family in community activities that expand on school learning.
- Discuss with your student mutual school expectation and hopes and dreams for the future. It is never too early to discuss college and career options.
Collaborate with your school
- Inform the school of your student’s needs and any changes in family circumstances.
- Establish a communication system with your student’s teacher(s) and use it frequently.
- Check your student’s homework, attendance and academic progress often.
- Respond to all messages from school.
- Attend school meetings, family events, and parent-teacher conferences.
Become a Leader
- Learn how the school system works and how to advocate for all children.
- Be part of decision-making committees at school.
- Organize a parent volunteer group in your school or be active in your school’s parent organization.
- Take classes to develop your leadership skills.
- Encourage your school to provide all families with information about community services and resources.
- Arrange educational and cultural experiences for your student and share these opportunities with your school and other families.