Family involvement at school events throughout the St. Bernard Parish School System has been at record high numbers this past month, promising another strong school year.
Superintendent Doris Voitier said family engagement is a continued priority for the system.
“When parents and caregivers are involved in their student’s academic progress, we see reduced absenteeism, higher grades and test scores, better social skills, and improved behavior,” Voitier said. “Efforts have been made across the school district to improve communications with families and increase opportunities for family involvement.”
Davies Elementary hosted over 800 grandparents at its Math and Literacy Grandparents Night, one of the many events that were part of the school’s Literacy Week. Meraux Elementary, Chalmette Elementary, and Arabi Elementary also welcomed grandparents at their schools this month, while Gauthier, Smith, and Lacoste will be hosting similar events later in the school year.
Our middle schools also shared opportunities for adults to visit. For instance, St. Bernard Middle School welcomed nearly 150 dads to the cafeteria for the annual Dads and Donuts social which followed last month’s Moms and Muffins. Trist Middle and Andrew Jackson Middle also welcomed parents on campus with their school’s first Parent Teacher Organization meetings of the year.
Chalmette High School also has a multitude of events for families throughout the year. A series of academic meetings tailored to specific grade-levels are scheduled. Support sessions for families and students to learn more about completing the Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) will be held periodically, and club and sports meetings are also ongoing.
More information about scheduled events can be found in the calendar which went home with students at the beginning of the school year and at individual school websites.
Voitier said education is truly a partnership and encouraged families to get involved.
“Our parents, grandparents, and other caregivers help us to help the children in our schools. Together, we can make our schools and community stronger – together.”
