Schools and families

"How can schools and families work together to raise the bar for student performance? What is the optimal role for families in educational problem solving and decision making? This practical volume is designed to help school practitioners and educators build positive connections with families and enhance student achievement in grades K-12. Beyond simply getting parents involved in schoolwork, the book describes processes by which professionals and parents can work together collaboratively to socialize and support young people as learners. Provided are research-based strategies and tools - including a useful self-assessment inventory - to help professionals both evaluate school-home connections that are currently in place and develop new, more productive practices." "Providing a theoretical framework for school-family collaboration, the book spells out the proven benefits for student learning and development. The book identifies four critical process variables that underlie strong partnerships - approach, attitudes, atmosphere, and actions - and guides practitioners in evaluating these variables in their own programs and schools. Examined are key pathways by which professionals and