The Parenting Partners™ Program was initially implemented in Area 4 Title I elementary and middle schools during the 2009/2010 school year.  The program was expanded to Title I elementary schools in Area 1 the subsequent year.  Each school identifies a team who participates in comprehensive professional development activities and then implements the program at their site.

The program consists of seven workshops for parents and culminates with a graduation ceremony honoring parents who successfully completed the program.  In November 2010, the Board recognized a group of parent graduates who had successfully completed the program.  In addition to building the capacity of parents to better support their child’s education, the program also strives to build the confidence of parents to serve as leaders by encouraging their active participation as members of the school team for subsequent parent workshops.

This evening’s recognition includes parent graduates who have taken the “next step” and have served as members of their school team by assisting with workshops for other parents.

An evaluation was conducted by the Title I evaluator.

• 95% of staff reported that the content of the program engaged, interested, and benefitted parents.
• 96% of parents surveyed indicated that they plan to increase their involvement with the school.
• 97% of parents surveyed responded positively to the question, "I am a stronger more effective parent".