Board of Education

State of Hawaii, Department of Education

Parent/Family Involvement Policy #2403

      The State of Hawaii Board of Education recognizes that a child's education is a responsibility shared by the school and the family during the entire period the child spends in school. To support the goal fo the Department of Education (DOE) to educate all students effectively, schools and parents must work as knowledgeable partners.

      Although parents are diverse in culture, language, and needs, they share the schools' commitment in the educational success of their children. The DOE and its schools, in collaboration with parents, shall establish programs and practices that enhance parent involvement and reflect the specific needs of students and their families.

      To this end, the Board of Education supports the DOE in the development, implementation, and regular evaluation of parent involvement programs in each school. The implementation will involve parents at all grade levels in a variety of roles, including input in decision-making processes and practices. The parent involvement program will be comprehensive and coordinated in nature. It will include, but not be limited to, the following components of successful parent involvement programs:

1.         Communication between home and school is regular, two-way, and meaningful

2.         Responsible parenting is promoted and supported.

3.         Parents play an integral role in assisting student learning, including successful achievement of the Hawaii Content and Performance Standards.

4.         Parents are welcome in school, and their support and assistance are sought.

5.         Parents are partners in the decisions that affect children and the families.

6.         Community resources are made available to strengthen school programs, family practices, and student learning.

      The DOE shall implement administrative guidelines that support professional development opportunities for staff members to enhance understanding of effective parent involvement strategies. The DOE recognizes the importance of administrative leadership in setting expectations and creating a climate conducive to parental participation.

      Engaging parents is essential to improved student achievement and to realize the Vision of a Public School Graduate

Approved: 5/3/01, Revised: 9/18/03