Fort Worth ISD Focuses on Parental Involvement

(FORT WORTH)-- As the school year steps into full swing, Fort Worth ISD is taking major steps to increase parental involvement. Through Vision 2010, the district’s strategic plan, Fort Worth ISD is diligently working toward becoming the best urban district in the nation.

According to Goal 3 of the plan, family involvement and community partnerships will be an integral part of the education of all children.

To ensure this goal was met, the District created a position that solely focuses on parental involvement.  Dave Guzman was brought on board as the Director of Parent Engagement.

Mr. Guzman is responsible for establishing an organized parent involvement program based on models that have been effective in other large urban school districts.

Previously Mr. Guzman served as the Regional Parent Support Officer with the New York City Department of Education.

Mr. Guzman is utilizing the Epstein Model for School, Family and Community Partnerships. The National PTA has adopted the model and Section 11-18 of No Child Left Behind legislation requires  practices from the Epstein Model.

The Epstein Model focuses on six types of involvement:

• Parenting
• Communicating
• Volunteering
• Learning at Home
• Decision Making
• Collaborating with the Community

A crucial element of the Epstein Model is the Action Team for Partnerships.  The team is comprised of teachers, parents, administrators and community members to set goals for school improvement.

Research shows that there are positive correlations between parental involvement and student achievement.  Parental involvement has proven to be beneficial for students across racial and socio-economic lines.

According to Mr. Guzman, a comprehensive approach to parental involvement is the first step in creating meaningful partnerships between parents, schools and the community.

“Our focus is to ensure the academic success of students. I believe we are taking the steps necessary to empower parents and prepare students for graduation,” he said.

For more information about parental involvement, contact Dave Guzman at 817-871-2454 or email [email protected].