Making Connections was the Annie E. Casey Foundation's signature place-based, community-change initiative of the 2000s. It sought to build on previous work and launch an effort focused firmly on the framework of family strengthening. The Foundation started Making Connections in 22 places, focusing eventually on first 10, then seven sites. It…

Describes an Indiana elementary school's first family day, in which over 200 parents participated in a full day of activities (discussions, films, singing, dancing) with their children. This rewarding experiment will pave the way for future attempts to celebrate the family and strengthen school pride. (MLH)

Involving families in their children's education is not only a legal requirement in special education, it also predicts academic achievement, social and emotional development, and a variety of other positive school outcomes for all children. Unfortunately, school-home relationships often have been ignored or underdeveloped. Disconnections between…