To get more parents, expecially fathers, involved in school activities, a Southboro (Massachusetts) elementary school put on a successful pancake breakfast that not only attracted many parents but also made money. (RW)

Controversy broke out when a Montgomery County, Maryland, school board member attempted to make homework compulsory. Successful board policies on homework are briefly discussed. (IRT)

Discusses the conflict that grew between parents and the school system after an elementary school child was attacked in the school. (IRT)

Describes how various school districts in the United States are complying with the 1987 McKinney-Vento Homelessness Assistance Act (reauthorized in 2001). Summarizes changes in McKinney-Vento regulations. (PKP)

Print public relations (calendars, newsletters, and annual reports) are not enough. Schools need effective two-way public relations programs that are high-priority, have adequate budgets and staff training, capitalize on new technologies, involve local education reporters, and feature board meetings and informal luncheons held throughout the…

Describes the processes used by the North Salem Central School District in New York when parents challenge school materials. (MD)

Outlines how the Brewster Central School District in New York successfully developed a family life program that includes sex education in the curriculum. They learned that the success of this program depended on the development of parent trust through close communication between the school and the community. (MD)

When the Arlington Heights schools dropped music instruction because of a budget defeat, parents formed Music for Youth, a nonprofit corporation, to provide the instruction. (Author/IRT)

Outlines successful strategies for encouraging parents to stay involved in their children's education: (1) increasing communication; (2) improving participation; (3) encouraging cooperation; and (4) developing partnerships. (LMI)

Baby Boom parents' high incomes and stratospheric expectations often combine to confound the most seasoned school administrators. These parents are criticized for shifting parental responsibility to schools and overstressing their children's academic achievement. For all their hyperactivity, many upscale parents do care and have considerable…

The push for parent involvement shows up at the federal, state, and district level. Without a plan that includes a definition, specific goals, and research-based practices, the result can be parent interference--not parent involvement. Lists publications, organizations, and Web sites that address parent involvement in education. (MLF)

Supporting parental-involvement research findings, Congress in 1995 appropriated $10 million to fund 28 parent information and resource centers in 27 states and Washington, D.C. In 1999, 58 more were funded. Centers communicate personably with parents via newsletters, referral networks, websites, cable TV, and toll-free numbers. (MLH)

Describes how one Los Angeles County school district successfully passed a school bond referenda. Includes a list of six strategies. (PKP)

Describes successful volunteer programs that use parents to help expand curriculum, improve academic achievement, and free teachers to make better use of their teaching time. Includes a list of key elements to consider when setting up such programs. (MD)