Reaching Out : A K-8 Resource for Connecting Families and Schools

"The timing for Reaching Out could not have been better. Just when educators are beginning to realize that teachers need training in how to work with parents, Kyle, McIntyre, Miller, and Moore bring us a book that is a welcome breath of fresh air." a??Patricia A. Edwards, Professor of Language and Literacy Michigan State University " Reaching Out describes a great variety of ways to respectfully and productively engage families in helping their children learn and grow. Throughout the text the reader is reminded that parents are experts about their children and that trusting relationships are built on respectful, two-way communications. The authors also remind us that the goal of family involvement is not parent participation at school events and activities but improved student achievement.a?? a??Steve McCafferty, Principal Mildred Dean School, Newport, KY Involve families in the education process and enhance your studentsa?? learning experience! Too often, todaya??s student feels alienated from school, and learning suffers as a result. Developing a relationship with the family can provide the missing link in the educational chain. Reaching Out is an invaluable resource for compassionate educators interested in building strong relationships with their studentsa?? families. A dynamic team of teachers and teacher educators have combined their first-hand experience and in-depth research in this essential guidebook. By involving the entire family in the educational experience, teachers can bridge the gap separating home and school and help produce happier, healthier, and smarter kids. Highlights include: Building trust with families Communicating in positive ways with studentsa?? families Implementing family workshops Involving families through innovative homework ideas Based on a five-year study, the information will be particularly helpful for teachers whose classrooms reflect a diverse student population. By incorporating these concepts and techniques, you not only enhance the learning experience you also help your students to be more compassionate and excited about school.