Family Engagement in SRVUSD: Building a Future for our Students Together
Ilana Israel Samuels |  Mar. 24, 2023 

Family nights, Pastries with Parents, coffee with the principal and family picnics. These are only some of the ways that our schools engage with their parents and caregivers.

Research shows that children of all ages do better in school when their family is engaged and trusting relationships are built and nurtured. The goal in SRVUSD is that every student is supported to reimagine success in the way that works best for them. And, we know we also need our parents and caregivers - the first and most important educators in a child’s life - to be equipped to support their students in this success. 


One way that we do this is in our partnership with PTAs. This year we co-sponsored a cyber safety informational night and always make sure to promote all of their upcoming educational events. We are so fortunate to have these incredible leaders as our partners. Whether it be supporting parents on how to reconnect with their kids, or providing important information on topics like eating disorders or neurodiversity, our PTA partners are integral to our success, and more importantly, to our students’ success. 


Another way we bring parents and caregivers into the fold is through the San Ramon Valley Education Foundation (SRVEF). As our partner in fostering a world-class educational experience for SRVUSD students, their mission is to invest in education, support parent organizations, and engage our community for the benefit of and in partnership with the district. If it weren’t for the SRVEF and the impact they make, our students and teachers would not be able to benefit from the gifts our families and community make to benefit and supplement the outstanding public education we are known for across the state. 


Family engagement extends to many of our community partners as well. Whether it be the C.O.P.E Parent Seminars, the NAACP Elementary School Parent Engagement Workshop, or school-based events, SRVUSD is committed to supporting and building genuine and supportive relationships with every single parent and caregiver. 

  

As we work to deepen our engagement with our parents and caregivers, we will be continuing to build out opportunities for involvement and partnership. We recently sent out a survey to all parents and caregivers, as well as SRVUSD staff, connected to the Strategic Directions pillar of Culture of Responsiveness. Please check your email for the link - it only takes about 10 minutes to provide your feedback!


Additionally, we will soon be sending out information about Grading Parent Nights that will take place on April 13 and 27. Director of Secondary Instruction, Christopher George, shared yesterday at the Board of Education workshop that as we continue our efforts in grade reform, we are working to “enhance our grading system to be a tool that helps us ensure and require that all students become proficient in the standards.” We encourage every parent and caregiver to join us at these upcoming Grading Nights to understand our goals, ask questions, and learn about how we are making sure every student in SRVUSD succeeds and is ready for post-graduation endeavors and beyond.


We are excited about what the future holds for our students, and engaging our families and working together with every member of our community to build that future together.