From Black Parents, With Love: Inclusive Possibilities to Engage Black Parents in School Contexts

• In Event: Parents and Partnerships: Critical Aspects of Equitable Leadership

Abstract

This study explores the possibilities to reimagine and redefine parent partnerships through the voices of Black parents. We sought to discover how Black parents envision their relationships with schools. We used a qualitative design informed by a narrative approach to have Black parents reimagine and re-story their relationship with schools. Our study captured to perspectives and challenges of 10 Black parents of school-aged children who identified a desire to be more engaged in their children’s schools. Using thematic analysis, we reduced their significant statements into three themes: (a) school vs. community challenges, (b) care is action, and (c) authentic partnerships. We then provide recommendations for policy, research, and practice.

Topic Descriptors: School Context and Communities; Black Parents, Parent-School Partnerships

Authors

• Derrick Robinson, North Carolina A&T State University

• Brian Williams, North Carolina A&T State University

• Tempestt Richardson Adams, Appalachian State University

• Nakeshia N. Williams, North Carolina A&T State University