According to Education News, the President has a number of initiatives yet to be implemented, and he will push for more education reform allotments within the budget. A large part of education reform under the Obama administration has to do with parental involvement. Approximately $270 million in additional funding is allocated to the Department of Education for use directly related to involving parents in student education programs and activities.
President Obama said "The bottom line is that no government policies will make any difference unless we also hold ourselves more accountable as parents. Because government, no matter how wise or efficient, cannot turn off the TV or put away the video games. Teachers, no matter how dedicated or effective, cannot make sure your children leave for school on time and do their homework when they get back at night. These are things only a parent can do. These are things that our parents must do”.
Now, with the attention of the President and his administration, is the perfect opportunity for parents everywhere to get actively involved and included in the education reform movement. My solution asks parents to stop blaming schools, administrators, and teachers for their child's educational outcomes and requires them to become an active participant in being an advocate in making sure that their child is receiving the education that they desire. This would be a federal requirement and there would be consequences if not followed.
Yes, parental involvement is not an easy task; but the positive outcome of it is undeniable. We could continue to spend gazillions of dollars and thousands of hours talking about education reform, but that will get us nowhere. Parents, we need to be accountable for our child's education and it is not too late to start.
Studies continue to show that parental involvement is crucial to the success of reforms. Henderson & Berla (1994), found that the children who are furthest behind make the greatest gains in achievement when their parents are part of school life. Also children had higher grades and test scores, better attendance and more homework done, fewer placements in special education, more positive attitudes and behavior, and higher graduation rates.
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