BOB HOPE SCHOOL — Elementary campus embraces strong family engagement culture

Published 12:08 am Sunday, March 17, 2024

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Since 2010, Bob Hope School has a lengthy history of strong family engagement, fostering a strong sense of community and collaboration that extends far beyond the school gates.

It is thrilling to witness the positive impact this has had on students, families, and staff.

Parent involvement is essential to Bob Hope School’s success because parents are their child’s first teacher. With most of the district’s population being economically disadvantaged, involving parents leads to improved academic outcomes and increased social-emotional skills.

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For example, a study by the American Academy of Pediatrics finds that children who continue to live in impoverished circumstances but are given access to high quality early childhood education programs have improved long-term life outcomes. This often equates to increased income over their lifetime.

Additionally, the amount of our parents who are involved in the Bob Hope School community is contrary to the popular belief that parents of low-income children are not interested in being involved in their child’s education. Given this, Bob Hope School does not limit parent engagement to occasional parent-teacher conferences or parent education nights.

Bob Hope School instead thrives on a culture of inclusivity and partnership, where families are valued as essential contributors to their child’s educational journey.

One of the cornerstones of our family engagement efforts is our commitment to open communication and accessibility. We have implemented various channels for parents to stay informed and connected, including regular newsletters, social media updates, and a dedicated parent portal on our school website.

Through these platforms, families receive timely updates on school events, academic progress, and opportunities for involvement.

Furthermore, we have established a range of initiatives to encourage active participation from families. From volunteer programs and parent workshops like our content specific Make and Takes or our Coffee with the Counselor sessions to curriculum showcases such as our Winter and Spring Concerts, there is no shortage of opportunities for parents to engage with their child’s learning experience.

These initiatives not only strengthen the bond between home and school but also empower parents to play an active role in their child’s academic success.

Moreover, we recognize the importance of celebrating diversity and honoring the unique backgrounds and experiences of our families. Through multicultural events like Spanish Heritage Festival, Black History Month parades and Chinese New Year, we strive to create a welcoming environment where every family feels valued and respected.

As we look ahead, we remain steadfast in our dedication to strengthening family engagement and building a vibrant school community where every member feels heard, supported and empowered to thrive. Together, Bob Hope School continues to cultivate a culture of collaboration and shared responsibility, ensuring that all children reach their full potential.

Bob Hope School is shaping the future leaders of tomorrow, one family at a time.

Elizabeth Hernandez serves as campus director of Bob Hope Elementary Baytown. She can be reached at elizabeth.hernandez@bobhopeschool.org.