Barriers to Engagement: Latina/o/x Family Experiences With School District Engagement

• In Event: Latina/o/x Educational Resistance and Relationships Across P-16

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to examine the engagement practices of two school districts with a longstanding Latina/o/x presence. Using intersectionality as the guiding framework, the researchers examine district practices and initiatives to engage Latina/o/x families through qualitative methods. Findings revealed that while engagement opportunities existed for Latina/o/x families in school and district activities, the districts often engaged English speaking parents and limited the opportunities for Spanish speaking families. Additionally, the lack of understanding of families' legal status prevented schools from developing a safe and welcoming environment, limiting their engagement. Our findings can help practitioners rethink their parent engagement practices and ensure that opportunities are provided for all parents and families.

Authors

• Eligio Martinez, Cal Poly Pomona

• Ruth María López, University of Arizona

• Joshua Childs, University of Texas at Austin

• Ain A. Grooms, University of Wisconsin - Madison

• April L. Peters-Hawkins, University of Houston

• Estela Lopez, University of Wisconsin - Madison

• Kait Ogden, University of Texas at Austin

• Maria Del Carmen Unda, University of Texas at Austin