Open Systems: Empowering Families for Engagement

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session 1
  In Roundtable Session: Building Capacity in School and Community Alliances

Abstract

Guided by the theoretical framework of Open Systems Theory, this study explored how educators in a large urban district in the Midwest utilize a text messaging family engagement platform to advance engagement goals that influence operating norms, shared power, and leadership transparency. Findings indicate 68,517 family responses were communicated in over 40 languages. Families indicated general satisfaction with school experiences and shared challenges that they face including food insecurity, fear for safety and well-being of children (including socio-emotional well-being), and instructional/curriculum concerns. Additional preliminary findings include school level differences in the ways administrators act upon feedback and the opportunities that they provide for enhanced family voice. Data analysis is ongoing, and complete findings will be explained in the full manuscript.

Authors

• Katherine A. Curry, Oklahoma State University

• Jentre J. Olsen, Oklahoma State University - Stillwater

• Ashlyn Fiegener, Oklahoma State University

• Ed Harris, Oklahoma State University

• Dominic Siami Egure, Oklahoma State University - Stillwater

• Younglong "Rachel" Kim, Oklahoma State University