National Standards for Parent/Family Involvement Programs
Standard I:
Communicating – Communication between home and school is regular, two-way, and meaningful.
Standard II:
Parenting – Parenting skills are promoted and supported.
Standard III:
Student Learning – Parents play an integral role in assisting student learning.
Standard IV:
Volunteering – Parents are welcome in the school, and their support and assistance are sought.
Standard V:
School Decision Making and Advocacy – Parents are full partners in the decisions that affect children and families.
Standard VI:
Collaborating with Community – Community resources are used to strengthen schools, families, and student learning.
Introduction
Over 30 years’ research has proven beyond dispute the positive connection between parent involvement and student success. The National Standards for Parent/Family Involvement Programs and their quality indicators are research-based and grounded in both sound philosophy and practical experience. The purpose of the standards is threefold:
To promote meaningful parent and family participation
To raise awareness regarding the components of effective programs
To provide guidelines for schools that wish to improve their programs
The program standards are guidelines for leaders of institutions with programs serving parents and families. Therefore, the intended audience includes principals, administrators, educators, and parents who are in positions to influence and improve parent involvement programs. When the standards are used as guidelines, they can direct leaders as they move from discussion to action in developing dynamic programs to improve student achievement through parent involvement. As with any effective long-term reform, the overall integration and implementation of standards should be based on local needs and circumstances.
