VCU CEnR

NEA policy brief examining research showing need for community involvement in education

"Challenges in the Co-Construction of Knowledge: A Global Study on Strengthening Structures for Community University Research Partnerships"

"If we want faculty to be involved in communities but reward them for other activities, we are our own worst enemies" [7]."

"Yet while faculty members want to (and should) be recognized and rewarded for their efforts, many express frustration that promotion and tenure systems have not caught up with institutional priorities, changes in the dynamic nature of scholarship, or the aspirations of the emerging guard of academic citizens.2"

Family and community involvements foster partnerships among schools, family and community groups, and individuals.

This guide provides ideas and suggestions taken from research on family and community involvement in schools and can help school staff and others design a long-term approach to garnering the positive involvement of all concerned. These ideas represent the tip of the iceberg of what is possible. There are as many solutions for creating a comprehensive plan to involve parents, families, and the community in the education of children, as there are schools. Each school has its own demographic mix, community context, and history. Following are ideas that can be modified and expanded upon to suit the needs of the school.

Article arguing "Research shows that an authentically engaged community improves schools - not just by participating in school events, but also by helping to shape reform."

This research synthesis is the third in a series of reports to help local school, community, and family leaders obtain useful research-based information about key educational issues. This synthesis addresses diversity as it relates to student achievement and school, family, and community connections.

A report out today identifies best practices for bridging the minority parent-school divide, compiled from study of leading educational organizations

In an effort to improve student achievement and to help to close the achievement gap, the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund (MALDEF) and the National Education Association (NEA) partnered through their Parent Engagement initiatives to increase the inclusion and engagement of parents of color in their children's education.

Parent involvement is consistently cited as an important correlate of effective schools. For nearly a quarter of a century, research on parental and family involvement has documented that parents can do much to reinforce positive attitudes toward school, to prepare their children for school, and to support their children's efforts once they are in school.

This survey examines Latinos' perceptions of education and their feelings about the system

Describes the development of a commitment to action. May be useful to thinking about developing a grant proposal or research proposal.