PTA recognizes that schools with well-structured, comprehensive parent involvement programs are more effective schools. Thirty years of research and 100 years of practice has taught us that when parents are involved, students have:

• Higher grades, test scores and graduation rates
• Better school attendance
• Increased motivation and better self-esteem
• Lower rates of suspension
• Decreased use of alcohol and other drugs
• Fewer instances of violent behavior
• Greater enrollment rates in higher education

In 1997, the National PTA published the National Standards for Parent Family Involvement. These six research-based standards are:

1. Communicating - Communication between home and school is regular, two-way and meaningful.
2. Parenting - Parenting skills are promoted and supported.
3. Student Learning - Parents play an integral role in assisting student learning.
4. Volunteering - Parents are welcome in school and their support and assistance are sought.
5. School decision-making and advocacy - Parents are full partners in decisions that affect children and families.
6. Collaborating with the community - Community resources are used to strengthen schools, families and student learning.

These National Standards were endorsed by the Rhode Island Board of Regents for Elementary and Secondary Education in November, 1999. For information on scheduling a Parent Involvement workshop at your school designed to help you expand parent/family engagement, contact ri_pres@pta.org.