In this episode, I speak with Christina Hidek, an expert in parent engagement, about the vital role of parent communities in schools. We explore the numerous benefits of empowered parent groups and how schools can build strong, collaborative relationships with parents.

Episode Highlights

• The wide-ranging benefits of engaged parent communities for schools, students, and parents.
• Uncovering hidden parent talents and skills to enrich the school community.
• Moving beyond traditional parent involvement like bake sales to more strategic partnerships.
• Real-world examples of how parents have helped schools solve critical challenges.
• Strategies for overcoming barriers and adversarial relationships between schools and parents.
• The importance of open communication and mutual goal-setting.
• How to effectively support and empower parent groups.
• The school leader's role in fostering positive parent-teacher relationships.

Key Takeaways

1. Engaged parent communities are invaluable assets to schools.
2. Schools should actively seek to understand and utilise the diverse skills and talents within their parent community.
3. Open communication and collaboration are essential for building strong parent-school partnerships.
4. School leaders play a crucial role in fostering a positive and productive relationship with parent communities.

Links Mentioned

• Christina's Facebook Community: Superstar PTO Leaders Group

Episode Partner

The International Curriculum Association: Learn more

Thank you for tuning in, and if you found this episode useful, please share. You can find me on LinkedIn and Bluesky.

Shane Leaning, an organisational coach based in Shanghai, supports international schools globally. Passionate about empowering educators, he is currently co-authoring 'Change Starts Here.' Shane has extensive experience in the UK and Asia and is a recognised voice in international education leadership. Learn more at shaneleaning.com.

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