Involve Parents and Community Members

Epstein (1992) (cited in National PTA, 1994), has synthesized research-based practical approaches for involving families and community groups in their schools to create a comprehensive program of partnership. He recommends the following strategies for increasing family and community involvement in education:

1. Inform parents and community members about educational programs, including science programs.

2. Strengthen communications between the school and parents and community members.

3. Include parents and community members in decisionmaking about school - e.g., changes in the science program.

4. Include families and community members in volunteer activities, such as science classes and projects.

5. Regularly use parents and community members as instructional resources - e.g., tutors, aides, experts on special projects, etc.

6. Enable students to interact with families at home to share knowledge and applications - e.g., sharing in hands-on, minds-on activities and in real-life inquiry into a scientific issue or need in the home or community.