Reaching Out
A K-8 Resource for Connecting Families and Schools
- Diane W. Kyle - University of Louisville, KY
- Ellen McIntyre - North Carolina State University, USA
- Karen B. Miller - Roby Elementary
- Gayle H. Moore - LaGrange Elementary
Foreword by Roland G. Tharp
Parental involvement is central to improved student performance, and in this book the authors illustrate how sustained parental involvement not only improves individual performance, but also has transformed classrooms and even entire schools. This book will provide teachers with a myriad of activities and ideas to connect in a meaningful way with the families of their students. Some activities are time and resource-intensive, and other ideas can be implemented with a minimum of preparation and effort.
"In today’s era of accountability, it is refreshing to find a book that helps teachers think beyond teaching to the tests to focus instead on children and families and ways to create opportunities for successful learning."
"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, the authors bring us a book that is a welcome breath of fresh air."
"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.”