When adults get involved in children’s education, everyone benefits. Adults see firsthand what goes on in today’s classrooms and become better prepared to assist children with their schoolwork. Children reap the rewards of being assisted by caring adults and come to realize the importance of education from their adult role models. Teachers received much-needed help in teaching and reaching out to their students.

The Kansas City, Missouri School District welcomes educational involvement from parents as well as members of the community. The District strongly encourages adults to join individual school’s School Advisory Committees (SACs) or Parent Teacher Association (PTAs). 

The District recognizes that volunteers can make valuable contributions to the district’s schools and encourages community and parent participation. Further, parent and community involvement are essential components to high student achievement. Before any volunteer is placed in a position where he or she may be left alone with students, the volunteer will have completed a background screening.

The term "parental involvement" actually encompasses much more than a child’s parents. It applies to any adult who plays an important role in a child’s life, including grandparents, aunts, uncles, stepparents and guardians. These are the people who assume responsibility for a child’s education, development and well-being.

Because adult involvement is so crucial to our students’ success, our school doors are always open during the school day to the parents and guardians of our students. As a safety precaution, we ask all visitors – including parents and guardians – to check in at the school office when entering and leaving the building. Visiting school regularly is a great way to keep informed about children’s academic progress. This can be accomplished by making appointments to talk with teachers and by attending the District’s parent-teacher conferences, which are scheduled twice each school year.

Here are some other suggestions for adults who want to help students succeed at school.

• Read to children and have them read to you.
• Check homework assignments each day to spot problem areas and help answer any questions.
• Ask children about their school experiences to show you’re interested in what they’re learning.
• Remind students to take their books and supplies to school every day.
• Make sure students get a good night’s sleep and eat a nutritious breakfast before each school day.

For more information about helping children get the most out of their education or about getting involved in the Kansas City, Missouri School District, you may call your area school or contact Public Information at (816) 418-7549.