Focus on FACE asked FACE Deputy Chief Jenna Monley to reflect on the inspiration for the Family Engagement Conference. Here’s the letter she wrote to invite you to join us on October 20.
Navigating the School District can appear to be a daunting task. Moreover, we all share a common belief that families want the best for their child but that path forward is not always clear. The concept for The Roadmap to Navigating the School District of Philadelphia conference was born out of countless conversations with families who expressed, “I do not know how the school district works.” I started thinking, how do we get families access to the knowledge, and resources they need to feel confident to work together with our schools to support their children’s academic success. We are inviting families and community members to engage in conversation and in the learning process with district leaders, content experts, educators, and community organizations.
The conference is your guide to help you along the way — from what your child is expected to learn, to how you can support your child’s emotional health, to understanding education policy and decision making, to helping your child find their school fit, and to ultimately become empowered, engaged members of your school communities. It’s all about giving families tools to know how to best interact with their child’s school, and stay informed in their children’s education lives.
As a parent, I understand just how stressful it can be to send your child to school. Don’t worry! We have the resources to help. We will introduce you to your school’s Family Engagement Liaison, provide you with information on our Family Academy: Courses and Training program, link you with the school’s School Advisory Council, and much more.
This is a huge district-wide coordinated effort; we partner with district departments to host mini-workshops, which provides families with direct access and clear communication with the school district and allows them to receive information on district-wide initiatives and resources. Parents and families can attend workshops that are aligned with their needs. The conference demonstrates how we can work together to invest in the success of our students while making sure that their families have the resources necessary that will transfer into positive outcomes for School District of Philadelphia students.
I sincerely hope you will join us for this free event on October 20, 2018 from 10am-2pm at 440 N. Broad Street for a day of workshops, lunch, resource vendors, giveaways, school supplies, winter coats, uniform vouchers, child care, and more.
To learn more about the event and to register, please visit our Events Page or call 215-400-4180, Option 5.
