Untapped Resources: Black Parents' Strategies to Contribute to Student Learning

• In Event: 68.058 - Community Engagement in Urban School Settings

Abstract

Despite the vast research on parental involvement, little is known about the specific contributions and impact of Black families to student learning. This study surveyed 130 parents/guardians of Black K–12 students throughout the United States to identify the strategies and resources they use in engaging with their children’s education. The families exhibited high rates of supporting learning at home, communicating with schools, and providing educational experiences in the community. Participants reported using two types of resources: programs and organizations geared specifically to Black students, and social interactions through friends, parents, and the Internet. School personnel may improve communication and collaboration with Black parents by revisiting policy and restructuring engagement programs.

Authors

• Angela Clark-Louque, California State University - San Bernardino

• Yvette Latunde, Azusa Pacific University