Six Types of Parent Involvement in Schools

Epstein (1995) describes six types of parental involvement in schools:

1. Parenting. The basic obligations of parents include housing, health, nutrition, and safety for their children. Parents also should provide home conditions for learning at all levels.
2. Communicating. The basic obligations of schools include school-to-home communication (such as memos, notices, newsletters, report cards, conferences, and phone calls) and information (on schools, courses, programs, and activities). Parents provide home-to-school communication, making a two-way channel for interaction and exchange.
3. Volunteering. Parents volunteer their time and talents at school activities and fundraising.
4. Learning at Home. Parents help their children with homework and with setting educational goals.
5. Decision Making. Parents participate in PTA/PTO organizations and school decisions on policy, leadership, and advocacy.
6. Collaborating with the community. Parents encourage partnerships with community resources and services.