Parent Engagement for a Remote World
By Richard A. Carranza, New York City Schools Chancellor As
we approach the end of an unprecedented year, I reflect on the past
eight months with a deep sense of gratitude and awe for the unwavering
commitment parents have shown to their
children and New York City. I always say parents are our partners in
everything we do, and at no point has that ever been more true than
throughout the Coronavirus pandemic. Each of you has gone above and
beyond during this crisis, and your continued investment
and engagement in our school communities has been vital as we move
forward together.
As
a parent myself, I know how challenging it can be even in normal times
to feel pulled in different directions simultaneously. In this moment,
it seems as though society’s expectations
of parents has increased tenfold—and we need you to know we are here to
support you every step of the way. We are expanding every effort to
lift up and empower parents as our partners for the good of our children
and this city.
In
that spirit, I am proud to announce the launch of Parent University: a
new online platform that offers pre-recorded courses, live events, and
activities to help families connect
and support students at every grade band, in multiple languages.
We
know our families are busier than ever, and this platform is designed
to meet the ongoing needs of parents through a variety of on-demand
resources that harness best practices
across multiple subject areas and grade levels. We invite all families
across the five boroughs to create a free account and register for
workshops, attend events, access trainings, and more through the Parent University website.
There
are currently more than 95 courses offered through the program that
cover a wide range of topics. From reading strategies for students with
disabilities and help multiplying
fractions to learning how to use Google Classroom and preparing for PTA
elections, there is something on Parent University for everyone.
Parent University will also provide even more ways for us to share important
news, updates, and information with families. I am so excited that this
new platform will take our efforts
to communicate vital information to parents and guardians one step
further during this crisis and beyond.
Now
more than ever, it is critically important that we find creative new
ways to lift up our families and strengthen our school communities—and
that’s what Parent University is all
about. This crisis has demanded so much flexibility and patience from
you, and we are here to meet you where you are. Our commitment is to
empower parents as partners throughout the learning journey, and I hope
you will take time to explore the Parent University website, access resources, and register for an upcoming workshop.
