Family Engagement as Pathway to Equity? Racial and Linguistic Differences in Head Start Children's Outcomes

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Thursday 9:45 am - Gold 2
  In Roundtable Session: Family and Parent Engagement

Abstract

Despite Head Start's commitment to promoting school readiness for low-income families, significant disparities persist across racial and linguistic groups. This study examined how family engagement indicators vary across demographic groups and mitigate disparities. Using Head Start FACES 2014 data, we analyzed 717 children from 115 classrooms. Results revealed significant differences in parents' perceptions of teachers' family engagement attitudes, with African American and Hispanic parents reporting lower ratings than White parents. Teachers' attitudes toward family engagement consistently associated with children's outcomes across cognitive, executive function, and social-emotional domains, while knowledge and practices showed minimal associations. However, family engagement indicators demonstrated limited capacity to reduce achievement gaps. Findings suggest family engagement, particularly teacher attitudes, contributes to positive outcomes but practices need enhancement. 

Author

• Yijie Wang, University of Washington