Parent participation is not just a requirement, but a key to unlocking the full potential of
your weekend school. When parents actively engage in their children’s education, it
fosters a supportive and collaborative environment that benefits students, teachers, and
the broader community. This involvement is a cornerstone of a thriving school
community, leading to improved student performance and a more enriching school
experience.

Firstly, parent involvement has a direct positive impact on student achievement.
Research consistently shows that children whose parents engage in their education
tend to have higher academic performance, better attendance, and more positive
attitudes toward school. Parents who participate in school activities, help with
homework, and communicate regularly with teachers reinforce the importance of
education to their children, fostering a culture of learning at home.

Additionally, parent participation strengthens the school community by building stronger
relationships between families and school staff. This collaboration leads to a better
understanding of students’ needs and more effective support strategies. Schools with
active parent engagement often see increased volunteerism, which can enhance school
programs, events, and resources. For example, parents can assist in organizing school
events, fundraising, or leading extracurricular activities, enriching the overall school
experience for students.

Schools can implement various strategies to effectively engage parents. One approach
is to create welcoming environments that encourage parent involvement from the start.
This can include hosting orientation sessions, family nights, and workshops that
address parents’ interests and concerns. Communication is key; schools should use
multiple channels, such as newsletters, social media, and parent-teacher conferences,
to keep parents informed and involved.

Another idea is to establish parent-teacher associations (PTAs) or similar groups that
provide structured opportunities for parents to contribute to school decision-making and
planning. These groups can serve as a platform for parents to voice their opinions,
share ideas, and collaborate on school initiatives.

At WISER, we understand that parent participation is not just important, but vital for
building a supportive and successful school community. That’s why we have parent
participation as one of our standards for characterizing a Weekend Islamic School of
Excellence. By fostering strong partnerships between parents and schools and offering
diverse engagement opportunities, schools can create an environment where every
student can thrive. We encourage you to embrace this approach and witness the
positive impact it can have on your school.

Contact us at info@wiser-usa.org for your professional development needs, or visit our
website to learn more about our Standards of Excellence for Weekend Islamic Schools.