Chapter 1: Introduction: Recognizing Your Role

Parents are the first and, perhaps, the most significant teachers of their children. Much has been written about the value, and challenges, of fostering continued parental involvement once a child has entered the formal education system. This chapter will set the context for the module by providing a brief overview of some of the advantages and disadvantages of involving parents in your school-some of the dynamics inherent in the "parents as partners" model. This chapter will also provide guidelines to the content and processes involved in completing this module.

This module explores the dynamics of the principal/teacher/parent interactions that comprise the climate of the school as a place of social interaction as well as a place of learning. The term "parent" is used to refer to a parent, guardian, grandparent, or other primary caregiver.

The Benefits and Challenges of Parent Involvement

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