Principals & the “I Care” Parent Engagement Character Curriculum Model
School effectiveness literature states that exemplary principals all communicate a clear school mission, establish a cohesive curriculum, set high expectations for students and teachers, provide strong instructional leadership, encourage positive parent contact and involvement, and make available widespread student rewards. Components of the “I Care” Parental Involvement Curriculum Model can make a significant contribution to each of these activities.
Role of Principals
- Develop an implementation plan that addresses materials, manpower, and time
- Coordinate training for teachers, support staff, parents, and community partners
- Establish an atmosphere of enthusiasm
- Communicate the importance of implementing “I Care”
- Recognize successes in parent training, the return of Parent Feedback Forms, and improved student behavior
- Provide training on the On-Line Data Management System
- Oversee the implementation of “I Care” by reviewing and sharing monthly data
Benefits to Principals
- A vehicle for bringing all stakeholders together around a common positive purpose
- A unified theme on which to build school-wide activities
- Hard data regarding parent involvement that fulfills Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA)/Title I requirements
- Reduced absenteeism and behavior problems
- More parent support and participation in school events
- Increased achievement test scores
- Greater community support for and involvement in the school
