How is it defined?
Parent participation can entail aiding in the classroom, attending school assemblies and meetings, or participating in class field trips (Miedel & Reynolds, 2000). Student learning is enhanced by collaboration between the school, community, and home (Epstein, et al., 2002). However, the timing of many school events, including parent teacher conferences, can present a barrier for active participation from parents and caregivers (Graham-Clay, 2024). Furthermore, family participation in school declines as students progress from the elementary grades through to secondary school (Simon, 2004).
The Learning Bar’s Parent Survey is based on a framework developed by Joyce Epstein designed to foster positive relations between school and community (Epstein et al., 2002). The survey covers parents’ perceptions of their children’s experiences at home and school, as well as the extent to which parents feel the school supports learning and positive behaviour and promotes a safe and inclusive environment.
Why is it important?
- Parental participation at school can positively influence student motivations, attitudes and behaviours towards schooling (Hasbullah, 2025).
- Schools can help reduce socioeconomic inequities and improve achievement gaps by more deeply involving all parents and caregivers in their child’s school life (Hill & Tyson, 2009).
- Parent involvement helps bridge the gap between home and school by facilitating greater communication concerning a child’s educational needs (Koivuhovi et al., 2025).
- Schools have the ability to influence and increase family participation, as well as a responsibility to reach out and involve all families (Simon, 2004).
How do we measure it?
In OurSCHOOL, parents and caregivers respond six questions concerning their involvement in their child’s school (e.g., attended meetings or social functions, volunteered). Reponses to each question are reported.
References
Epstein, J. L., Sanders, M. G., Simon, B. S., Salinas, K. C., Jansorn, N. R., & Van Voorhis, F. L. (2002). School, family, and community partnerships: Your handbook for action (2nd ed.). Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin Press.
Miedel, W. T., & Reynolds, A. J. (2000). Parent involvement in early intervention for disadvantaged children: Does it matter? Journal of School Psychology, 37(4), 379-402.
Simon, B. S. (2004). High school outreach and family involvement. Social Psychology of Education, 7(2), 185-209.
Sui-Chu, E. H., & Willms, J. D. (1996). Effects of parental involvement on eighth-grade achievement. Sociology of Education, 69(2), 126-141.