Evaluating a Family Engagement Intervention to Strengthen Family-School Connections and Student Outcomes

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Friday 9:45 am - Gold 3
  In Roundtable Session: Enhancing family-school connections: Student engagement or outcomes

Abstract

This mixed methods study examines implementation and preliminary outcomes of a family engagement consultation intervention designed to strengthen family-school partnerships in a racially diverse, under-resourced school community. Thirteen parents participated in baseline surveys assessing role beliefs, self-efficacy, knowledge, and home-based support. No significant group differences were found between intervention and control groups. However, qualitative findings revealed that while parents were generally aware of academic performance, many lacked access to detailed assessment data and faced challenges supporting learning at home, particularly in math. Thematic analysis aligned with Epstein’s family engagement framework and emphasized the importance of effective communication, collaboration, and shared decision-making. Results highlight the potential of personalized consultations to enhance parent engagement and identify opportunities to improve implementation and follow-up supports.

Authors

• Danielle R. Harrell, University of Texas - Arlington

• Ambra Green, University of Texas - Arlington

• Aundraea Brown, University of Texas - Arlington

• Juterh Nmah, California State University, Bakersfield

• Angela Jeanette Hall, University of Texas - Arlington