For this qualitative study, the research explored the barriers that prevent parental involvement among families of middle school Black boys in grades five through eight. Studies have indicated the complexities of engaging the parents of Black male students. Based on the premise that parental involvement positively impacts academic and behavioral outcomes among Black male students, the purpose of this study is to identify best practices to increase involvement among parents of Black male students through the study of both parents and teachers (Dretzke & Rickers, 2016; Yosso, 2005). Parents and teachers participated in a five-question survey. The researcher included two parents and two teachers to participate in step two of the research, a semi-structured interview. The ancillary purpose was to contribute to the limited research regarding families of color. Research has focused primarily on middle and upper-class students and their families. This research aims to identify the perceptions of parents and teachers so that schools can improve their processes for engaging parents in a meaningful way. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]