Course Description

This course on effective strategies for engaging families in support of student learning will provide educators with the knowledge and skills necessary to establish strong, positive relationships with families and involve them in the educational process. They design and implement school-level initiatives that support family involvement and promote student success. The course will cover key strategies for including families in the classroom in meaningful ways that support student learning and development.

Educators will learn how to create a welcoming and inclusive school culture that supports students’ academic and social-emotional development. In addition, the course will examine the role of the teacher in building partnerships with community organizations.

Throughout the course, educators reflect on their teaching practices and apply what they have learned through interactive activities and hands-on exercises. The goal of the course is to empower educators to become confident and competent teachers who effectively partner with families and community members.

Essential Questions

• What is the relationship between family engagement, student learning, and belonging?
• How does family engagement foster inclusive school and classroom communities?
• What are the best practices for building mutually beneficial school, family, and community partnerships?

Comments from Teachers

“The course provided many different strategies for communicating with parents and building mutual trust with parents, such as consistent communication and finding out about family funds of knowledge. There was also a lot of information about establishing relationships with community organizations and businesses.”

“I love this course. I can’t wait to use the new strategies I learned to communicate with families.”

Danielson Teacher Framework Course Alignment