Engaging families boosts student success

Engaging families in a child’s education is crucial for academic success, especially for linguistically diverse immigrant families. Bethzaida Sotomayor, an ESOL teacher in Volusia County, and Ana Pasarella, director of family and community engagement in Alvin, Texas, shared insights during an Education Week webinar. They emphasized the need for schools to clarify U.S. education processes, as many immigrant families may not understand them. “Schools should explain to families how they can check grades,” Pasarella noted. Additionally, educators should provide resources for families to support learning at home, such as reading strategies. Pasarella highlighted the importance of meeting families where they are, suggesting online workshops and community outreach to increase participation. By fostering strong relationships with families, schools can enhance student outcomes and build trust within the community.