Practice, Research, and Framework for Districts, Schools, and Educators
The Importance of Parent and Family Engagement in K-12 Education
Parent and family engagement is a crucial component of a thriving educational ecosystem, fostering a collaborative environment that significantly benefits students, teachers, and the entire school community. This partnership, which encompasses a range of activities from at-home learning support to active participation in school events, is a shared responsibility between schools and families that has been consistently linked to improved student outcomes and a more positive school climate.
Improved Outcomes
- Higher academic achievement and engagement
- Lower dropout rate
- Increase in positive school culture
- Improvement in behaviors
- Lower absenteeism rates
- Increased teacher job satisfaction
- Better social and emotional development of the student
- Higher odds of students attending post-secondary education
- More effective public relations and community engagement
Note: There is a difference between Parent Engagement and Parent Involvement. Parent Engagement goes beyond the school bake sale, book fair, and volunteer work. It engages parents in effective and authentic decision making.
One-Sheet Implementable Samples
Key Components for Effective Parent/Family Engagement (Downloadable)
Sample Rubric for Effective Parent/Family Engagement (Downloadable)
Leadership Guide for Effective Parent/Family Engagement (Downloadable)
A Parent's Guide for Effective Parent/Family Engagement (Downloadable)
Teacher Practices for Effective Parent/Family Engagement (Downloadable)
Current Articles and Publications
On the Same Team- Ari Gerzon-Kessler
Training
Data-backed Training
Check and Connect (University of Minnesota)- US Department of Education "What Works"
"Enhances student engagement through relationship building, problem-solving, capacity building and persistence in school!"
Online Training
Introduction to Family Engagement in Education-Harvard EdX
Learning heroes-Family Engagement learning Institute Supporting school principals and district administrators to lead family engagement strategies that directly impact student learning and well-being. Nine-month Institute supporting leadership for family engagement. Published in numerous notable publications. Current study done October 2023, report overview here. Downloadable overview Research Result Specifics
National PTA Family Engagement Solutions Series: Programs by subject are available with resources for various subjects like attendance, math, reading etc. and are rated by efficacy. Updated 2024
FACEMAT Certification for Utah USBE (3 USBE credit hours) This is a certified course to prepare participants to become certified trainers in evidence-based family and community engagement practices.
Existing Engagement Programs in the State of Utah with Training
Granite School District
FACE Department (Family and Community Engagement)-Granite School District
Hilsdale Trifold Compact Case Sample
Relationship Phone Call Script Sample
Other Training Resources
Attendance Issue Resources
Home visiting programs The LEAP Effect through Connecticut Department of Education.
How to have difficult conversations with parents
Including MTSS (Multi-tiered Systems of Support)
Fact Sheet: Multi-Tiered Systems of Support and the Importance of Promoting Student Well-Being
Fact Sheet: Using Data to Inform MTSS Efforts to Promote Student Well-Being
Inclusive Practices & Family Engagement One pager for inclusive practices for families and schools.
Parent Powered An evidence-based support to boost attendance, academics and resilience. Partners with parents for more effective communication.
Science of Reading A community engagement project to help strengthen early literacy to build meaningful connections between schools, families and communities.
Contact Information:
Cassie Hays, M. Ed.
Parent Liaison and Engagement Education Specialist
Utah State Board of Education
cassie.hays@schools.utah.gov
801-538-7845
Susie Estrada
School Improvement Program and Special Education Parent Specialist
Utah State Board of Education
susie.estrada@schools.utah.gov
385-295-7891
Rvsd. 9/4/25