Strengthening Ties: The Role of Parent Engagement in School Satisfaction among Latinx Parents of English Learners

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Saturday 3:45 pm
  In Roundtable Session: Reimagining Educational Research for and with Latine Students

Abstract

This study uses Epstein’s (2011) theory of overlapping spheres of influence and Friedman et al.’s (2006b) parent satisfaction framework to explore engagement among Latinx parents of English Learners (ELs) and their school perceptions. Drawing on data from the 2019 National Center for Education Statistics Parent and Family Involvement Survey, it conducts linear regression to examine how satisfaction reflects EL parent–school relationship quality. Results reveal that fundraising predicts higher satisfaction, while other engagement types are not statistically significant. Other key predictors include parental employment and clear communication about parent roles. Findings highlight satisfaction’s potential to guide community-building and stress reconceptualizing engagement as a relational, culturally responsive practice addressing historical inequities and fostering shared agency between schools and families.

Author

• Nicole Pina, University of California - Los Angeles