The Fort Worth ISD has piloted the award-winning Abriendo Puertas program in the Northside pyramid area. Abriendo Puertas is a Spanish term that literally means “opening doors” and refers to the quest for success. This parental communication initiative was begun in 2003 by Texas A&M University’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences to increase high school graduation and college-going rates in the Lower Rio Grande Valley of South Texas. Recruited parent volunteers will teach other parents on an array of topics. The core curriculum consists of lessons in child development, transitioning to middle school to high school, promoting basic study skills, and building a portfolio for college application at home.
The program supports Goal Three of the District’s Strategic Plan: family involvement and community partnerships will be an integral part of the education of all children. The collaboration will augment the parental involvement program already in place.
For more information, contact Miguel Benitez or Stephanie Jackson in the Parent and Public Engagement Office, 817-814-2970.