Media release
Educators should reach out to involve parents, study says

The educational establishment should reach out to engage all parents more effectively in their children's learning, according to a study released by Minnesota Planning. The report, "Open the doors: partnering with parents in a standards-based education system," states that schools, school districts and state government should work with parents to identify successful strategies that give parents real and meaningful roles in their children's education.

The study shows that while parents support standards, their introduction has changed the dynamics of education and distanced some parents from the classroom. Lack of information about tests has left parents feeling sidelined. At the same time, population diversification makes parental involvement crucial to integrating students in new educational environments.

The 12-page report gives examples of good practices from other states and countries and documents the federal government's commitment to parental involvement. It is available on the Internet at www.gda.state.mn.us and by calling Minnesota Planning at 651-296-3985.

Minnesota Planning is a state agency that develops long-range plans for the state, stimulates public participation in Minnesota's future and coordinates activities among all levels of government.