As parents at Columbine Elementary School, Annie Larner, Dulce Hernandez, and Perla Jimenez, know the value of being involved in their child’s education, They strongly believe that parent engagement is the key to a child’s success in school. “When parents are actively engaged in their child’s education, it creates a powerful relationship between home and school,” shared Dulce Hernandez.

Recognizing the diverse challenges that many parents face in finding time to volunteer, they have collaborated with Columbine’s Family Liaison, Luis Montes, to spearhead initiatives that encourage and facilitate volunteerism among parents.

“We started forming groups to encourage parents to donate any amount of time they could spare, whether it was five minutes or more,” explained Perla Hernandez. “They can spend a few minutes to help set up for the trunk or treat event or to support teachers by putting folders together. Having flexibility in volunteering has allowed many parents to contribute in a way that works best for their schedule.”

An initiative that has received positive feedback is their parent monthly meetings, known as Cafecitos, which typically have anywhere from 40-45 parents in attendance. These meetings provide families the opportunity to connect with each other. Columbine Elementary Family Liaison, Luis Montes, emphasized the importance of these Cafecitos, stating “they provide parents with the essential resources needed to help better support their students.”

Annie Larner, who has two students at Columbine Elementary, shared that being more involved within her school community has allowed her to see positive outcomes. She has chaperoned school field trips, volunteered in the classroom, and has attended the Cafecitio meetings. “I feel more connected to the school overall. I have an open line of communication with teachers and faculty about my students’ challenges and progress. We help turn in assignments, review academic progress, and above all support their learning at home.”

The parent engagement goes beyond casual gatherings, with proactive measures in place to stay connected with families. “We check in regularly with families through phone calls, home visits, and parent-teacher conferences,” shared Montes. “This ensures continued and personalized communications with all of our families.” Having clear and consistent two-way communication helps create an environment where parents feel heard, valued, and motivated to actively participate in their students’ education.

Using messaging apps such as WhatsApp has served as a vital platform for communication and coordination among parents, with over 60 parents engaged in a group chat. “We put everything in the group chat – from support needed at conferences, to welcoming new parents and getting them involved in school activities,” shared Jimenez. “It’s rewarding to see more parents getting involved and supporting each other for the benefit of all the children.” This communication tool has significantly strengthened the sense of community and support among parents.

“I love hearing stories of parents working with teachers and the school district to address their children’s specific needs,” shared Hernandez. “It’s the love for our children and the interest in their well-being that drives us to be involved in their education.”