Parent Involvement = Student Success

Parents can help their children do well in school. And although time and money are sometimes in short supply, this article includes some easy steps you can take to help your child's school experience be a good one.

Tips:

• Get involved at school. Join the PTA or similar organization and volunteer.
• Be supportive of school and education.
• Be supportive of your child.
• Help your child choose classes.
• Get involved at home. Control TV use, homework, etc.
• Encourage reading and writing.
• Use the summer for educational activities. Visit museums or colleges.
• Use community resources as they are needed.

Parent Teacher Conferences

More than likely, your student has an advisor at school, maybe a teacher, coach or school counselor. Plan to meet with the advisor at least twice a year to discuss course work, schedules and your teen's future.

Parent-teacher conferences are an important way for parents to find out how their teens are doing in school and how well prepared they are for the next step. Here are some questions you can ask to make the most of your session:

• Is my child taking Core 40 classes? (These are the classes that best prepare students for college, training and work as an adult.)
• How can my child prepare for the Graduation Qualifying Exam?
• What does my child need to do to prepare for college?
• How do students sign up for college admission tests?
• How can I help?

Student Success Mini-Magazines

Each year, the state of Indiana publishes and distributes Student Success Mini-Magazines for students at each grade level.  These magazines are distributed at school and designed to help prepare students for the coming years. Ask to see your student's copy. You can also call Learn More Indiana toll-free at 1-800-992-2076 for a copy or order materials online.