How can you involve parents and families in student leadership initiatives?

1 Share the vision

One of the first steps to involve parents and families in student leadership initiatives is to share the vision and goals of the program with them. Explain why student leadership is important, what skills and competencies it develops, and how it aligns with the curriculum and the school mission. Invite them to participate in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of the program, and solicit their feedback and suggestions. By sharing the vision, you can create a sense of ownership and commitment among parents and families, and help them understand the value and purpose of student leadership.

2 Provide opportunities

Another way to involve parents and families in student leadership initiatives is to provide them with various opportunities to support and engage with the program. For example, you can invite them to attend or volunteer at student-led events, projects, or activities, such as assemblies, fundraisers, service learning, or clubs. You can also ask them to mentor, coach, or advise student leaders, or to share their own leadership experiences and insights with them. Additionally, you can encourage them to reinforce and celebrate student leadership at home, by acknowledging their achievements, providing constructive feedback, and setting high expectations.

3 Communicate regularly

A third way to involve parents and families in student leadership initiatives is to communicate regularly with them about the progress and outcomes of the program. Use various channels and methods, such as newsletters, emails, social media, or phone calls, to keep them informed and updated about the student leadership activities, challenges, and successes. Highlight the impact and benefits of student leadership on the students, the school, and the community, and showcase the stories and testimonials of student leaders. Moreover, invite them to share their opinions, questions, or concerns, and respond to them promptly and respectfully.

4 Collaborate with them

A fourth way to involve parents and families in student leadership initiatives is to collaborate with them on common issues and goals that affect the students, the school, and the community. For example, you can partner with them to identify and address the needs and interests of the students, such as academic support, career guidance, or social-emotional well-being. You can also work with them to advocate for and promote student leadership within and outside the school, such as by creating a parent-student leadership council, or by connecting with local organizations and businesses. Furthermore, you can learn from them about their cultural backgrounds, values, and perspectives, and incorporate them into the student leadership program.

5 Recognize their contributions

A fifth way to involve parents and families in student leadership initiatives is to recognize their contributions and appreciate their involvement. Express your gratitude and appreciation for their support, participation, and feedback, and acknowledge their role and impact on the student leadership program. You can also celebrate their contributions by inviting them to recognition events, ceremonies, or awards, or by sending them certificates, letters, or tokens of appreciation. By recognizing their contributions, you can strengthen your relationship with them, and motivate them to continue their involvement in student leadership initiatives.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?