building Family-Friendly AHI AT A CC) care about children is reflected in the care about children’s families.” nize their shared interest in responsibility and they work together to create better s and opportunities for students.” Joyce L. Epstein 2002Building Family-Friendly Schools Family-friendly schools create a climate in which every characteristic of the school is open and helpful. These family-friendly schools make every effort to build partnerships with all families, not just those that are most involved. Use this checklist to determine if a school is family-friendly and if the environment reflects the cultures and languages of the families. Practices for creating a family-friendly school environment: 1 Create and publicly post a family-school-community partnership policy or mission statement that provides the framework for all partnership activities. © Establish policies and practices that acknowledge and support traditional and nontraditional families, as well as those with differing schedules and commitments. 1 Create an open-door policy and climate that is responsive to parents and their concerns. 1. Set school calendars to accommodate major community events, activities, and ceremonies. 1B Publish a schoo! newsletter with up-to-date information and useful parenting tips, 1 Publish a policy handbook for parents and obtain parent input on new policies or programs. CO Plan regular occasions where parents and staff can get to know each other. 1 Survey parents to find out topics of interest for planning family events and workshops.Create a welcoming front office atmosphere. © Greet families with a smile and warm welcome. Cl Make parent friendly information available in the languages represented by the community, Gi Post signs in various languages that welcome families. Ci Create a comfortable reception area and a place to sit, meet, and access resources. 1 Hie bilingual staff to serve as interpreters. 1 Recognize that people have different learning styles and require that you vary the way information is shared. School staff who are successful in engaging family members share the following qualities: Cl Recognize that parents play a crucial role in their child's learning. 1 Always treat parents with respect. > i Demonstrate concern for students in all interactions with parents. Cl Reassess parent involvement efforts periodically: celebrate successes and address barriers. Participate in professional development related to building positive partnerships with families and communities.The services of the Center for the Education and Study of Diverse Populations (CESDP) focus on partnerships with culturally and linguistically diverse communities and districts. For training and technical assistance services, please contact us at cgustke@cesdp.nmhu.edu or 505-243-4442 CESDP/BLLPPI Phone: 505-243-4442 Albuquerque Office Toll: 1-800-247-4269 4501 Indian School Road NE Fax: 505-243-4456 Suite 203 West Web site: ‘CEDPiean Albuquerque, New Mexico 87110 www.cesdp.nmnuedy nen Working Together: School, Family, & Community Partnerships Toolkit The Toolkit contains Teachers Tools, Family Tools, and Professional Development Tools focused around six research-based modules. Now available from CESDP or on line at www.cesdp.nmhu.edu Family resources are now available in English and Spanish. Also available on NM Public Education Department Web site: Resources for Parents, Schools, and Communities www-ped.state.nm.us/parents & Module 1 Improving Communication @F Module 2 Promoting Positive Parenting i Module 3 Enhancing Student Learning Ss iX @ Module 4 Increasing Volunteerism 7 Module 5 Decision Making and Advocacy Modules : a Module 6 Community Collaboration