What is Parent Advocacy?

Parents show advocacy when they speak or write in support or defense of their children to improve opportunities for excellence in education. Parents show advocacy when they guide their children through school knowing what programs are available and understand how to navigate the system. Parents show advocacy by speaking together with other parents aspiring to articulate their needs and views to school personnel in an effective manner. Parents may assume advocacy roles to help outside agencies and community leaders respond to children’s needs and to the home school relationship. Parents can take a proactive stance in regard to the welfare of all children and appropriate programs to enhance their growth and development.


Parents are decision makers

Parents can participate in decisions about program planning for their children since they are the “experts” regarding their own children. They can also be involved in the needs assessment and evaluation for the class or program by providing their statement of needs and their perceptions about their effectiveness of the program.


Why should we focus on advocacy?

1. Parents and students have a voice in the process

2. They are involved fully in the important decisions regarding their education

3. Parents can encourage accountability in the educational system

4. Parents can influence programs and practices that benefit all children


What Schools can do

• Create a welcoming environment

• Solicit comments and suggestions from parents and families

• Invite parents to serve on committees

• Communicate regularly

• Encourage parents to learn more by offering parent trainings and workshops


What Parents can do

• Visit the school regularly

• Familiarize self with rules and procedures

• Know your child’s teacher

• Communicate regularly

• Include yourself in school events

• Participate in parent workshops and trainings