Sense of Community

Schools need to develop a sense of community for children and families. Children learn best when they feel comfortable in the school environment. A classroom that encourages community also encourages caring and trust among all the members of that community. Teachers' interactions with the children help set the tone for a classroom community.

When children believe that they are part of a community, they have an interest in making it function well. They encourage each other 's learning, cooperate, and use other children and adults as resources for their own learning. Children learn to take responsibility for their own actions and to contribute to the group. Learning occurs more readily because the children have fewer concerns about their place within the group. Discipline problems are less likely to occur as children are able to be successful and occupied in interesting activities.

Promoting a sense of community also is important for parents. The whole school must participate in establishing an environment that is welcoming and accepting of parents and other members of the community. To increase parent involvement, the school can verbally invite parents into the school, have an open-door policy that encourages parents to come, and provide support systems such as care for younger siblings. Organizing a parent advisory group or selecting parent representatives for each room will provide a voice for parents in organizational decisions. Such parent groups draw parents into the school community, especially if they feel that their input is valued. Parent involvement is most effective if there is a frequent exchange of information between parents and the school. Making the school a center for family services also builds the concept of a community of learners. Parent education classes, childbirth classes, community services, and college classes offered at the school increase the sense that the school is a vital part of the community.

For more information on parent involvement in schools, refer to the Critical Issues "Supporting Ways Parents and Families Can Become Involved in Schools" and "Creating the School Climate and Structures to Support Parent and Family Involvement."