In this article, the author discusses how to help Kyle, a 5-year-old child who is struggling with his parent's new marriage. Kyle's teacher's story describing Kyle's behavior in the classroom as well as the parent's story based on Kyle's home life are presented. Among other things, the author provides an assessment of the situation and offers…

This paper, written by a school administrator to parents, discusses parents' role in creating a positive educational environment, from providing a structured home life to volunteering in their child's classroom. The paper begins by asserting that a primary cause of behavior problems in the classroom is parent-child relationships in which the…

This essay promotes parental free-choice in educational matters. The argument is grounded in the assumption that the individual is a social entity whose nature derives from his or her bio-social rootedness in integrative cultural community. The only feasible means of eradicating the widespread phenomenon of "educational messianism" and restoring a…

The role and responsibility of teacher educators are examined as they relate to changing demands and expectations of society. As life styles and behavior of students change, teachers are ill prepared to meet classroom situations where they are confronted with rebellion and unrest. Complaints voiced against teachers currently have more to do with…

Considers reasons why schools have not successfully involved parents in bilingual education programs. Considerations to be addressed to improve the situation include (1) the concept of parent involvement; (2) the major characteristics of parent involvement in bilingual education; (3) the reconceptualization of parent involvement; and (4) the role…

Points out that in order for parents to support new educational approaches in teaching reading and writing, they must understand these methods. Describes successful ways to inform and involve parents in their children's literacy learning. (EL)

Few parents receive any education for that exacting role. Yet, the author argues, there is a need and a demand, to which adult educators should respond as a matter of urgency. (Author/SSH)

Describes the widespread parental involvement in Catholic schools, such as in parent-teacher organizations. Discusses the importance of these organizations in creating a sense of community. Describes how the development of adult religious education classes and the collaboration between parent organizations can create a sense of unity among parents…

Examines the virtues and excesses of parental involvement in public schools, including how minority parents are treated, and the dominant influence of some parents as they attempt to impose their particular beliefs onto the educational system. Explores research about the parent/teacher/school system relationship and teacher competence to deal with…

Provides suggestions on how music teachers can encourage parent involvement in students' music education. Identifies six techniques for parental involvement in education that are based upon the ideas of sociologist Joyce Epstein. Includes a list of resources. (CMK)

A teacher tells how she withstood physical threats by a 16- year-old student and verbal abuse from his parents. Another teacher and a school principal present their views on how she handled the situation, suggesting that teachers not overreact, avoid power struggles, and react calmly to students' bids for attention. (SM)

Discusses common concerns and misperceptions that child care providers and parents have about each other. These center around the degree of parental concern or involvement, or providers' lack of knowledge about family situations. Describes a "why not" approach to parents' requests concerning their child's care. (MDM)

This paper identifies and explains principles and practices in empowering parents of children with disabilities to be their advocates. Five models of empowerment are examined: moral, medical, enlightenment, compensatory, and the enabling models of helping. A lack of empirical data on empowerment is reported. (Author/DB)

Ten strategies are offered to aid the special gifted class teacher to communicate better with parents, colleagues, and the local community. These include scheduling group parent meetings, encouraging parents to visit the class, using "one-minute" notes and phone calls to brief individual parents, and developing a program brochure. (DB)

Reports that exposure to televised violence results in increased aggressive attitudes and behaviors, desensitization toward real violence, and unrealistic fears of victimization. Maintains that teachers can effect change by being knowledgeable about the impact of television, communicating to parents ways in which negative effects can be reduced,…