The School & the “I Care” Parent Engagement Curriculum Model
In the past, schools were considered institutions of learning. Today, schools have become a “home away from home” for many students, providing breakfast and before- and after-school care. As such, they've become responsible, not only for academic learning, but for the character development of their students. The “I Care” Parent Engagement Curriculum Model provides schools with the systems, strategies, and materials for meeting this responsibility.
Role of the School
- Administers the program
- Trains teachers, parents, and the community
- Sends monthly activities and Feedback Forms to parents
- Teachers teach at least one lesson related to the character trait; post and refer to the bulletin board messsages throughout the month
- Teachers communicate a positive (with no negatives) comment about their students to each parent monthly
- Staff inputs monthly data into On-Line Data Management System to document parental involvement
Benefits to Schools
- Meets No Child Left Behind parental involvement requirements
- Feedback Forms help teachers better understand families’ lifestyles and cultural background
- Provides opportunities for grade level, cross grade, and whole school events around the common character pillar of the month
- Improved school spirit
- Brings some parents into the school for the first time
