Parent Engagement

The above video features interviews with parents about their participation in the Parent Teacher Home Visits Pilot Project.

Engagement is a priority of the Sun West Education Plan the Division seeks to establish strong relationships with parents and caregivers to enhance positive student outcomes.

There are over “fifty years of research that attests to the fact that when parents are engaged in their children’s teaching and learning, children are more successful, both academically and socially” (Mapp, 2013). The research shows improved test scores, improved attendance, and an increase in overall happiness in school. As students get older, the research shows improved in-class behavior, increased homework completion, a decrease in high school drop-outs, as well as greater post-school outcomes.

The Sun West personalized learning philosophy supports parent engagement practices. Personalized learning uses parent knowledge to create positive learning experiences for our students.

Sun West affirms the following core beliefs to guide our work moving forward.

1. All parents have dreams for their children and want the best for them.​
2. All parents have the capacity to support their children’s learning. ​
3. The school has an important role in seeking to build partnerships.
4. Parents and school staff should be equal partners.

 Henderson, A. T. (2007). Beyond the Bake Sale: The Essential Guide to Family-School  Partnerships. New Press: Distributed by W.W. Norton.

Key Concepts and Resources

For more information contact: Pam Sawatzky, Learning Consultant at: pam.sawatzky@sunwestsd.ca