Why is parent and community engagement important?

Research tells us that the most successful schools engage students, parents, guardians and the community as partners in supporting student learning. With the overwhelming evidence that parent engagement has a positive effect on student achievement, all state schools and their communities are being encouraged to strengthen their engagement – with and between students, teachers, parents and guardians, support staff, community, industry and business groups.

How can schools, parents, and the community work together to focus communications on student learning?

1. Communication

Effective communication is an exchange between parents, guardians, communities and schools that involves information sharing and opportunities to learn about each other.

2. Learning partnerships

Partnerships between parents or guardians, communities, and schools that promote student learning and high expectations for student success.

3. Decision-making

Parents, carers, and community member play meaningful roles in school decision-making.

4. Participation

Parent, carer, and community participation in student learning and the school community is acknowledged and valued.