Family-school partnerships are important for student success. Research shows when families are involved in their children’s learning both at home and at school, their children do better in school.

The national PTA has developed National Standards for Family-School Partnerships to help guide schools in establishing positive relationships with parents and other family members. The updated standards shift the focus from what schools should do to involve parents, to what parents schools and communities can do together to support student success.

Standard 1: Welcoming all families into the school community—Families are active participants in the life of the school, and feel welcomed, valued and connected to each other, to school staff, and to what students are learning and doing in class.

Standard 2: Communicating effectively—Families and school staff engage in regular, two-way, meaningful communication about student learning.

Standard 3: Supporting student success—Families and school staff continuously collaborate to support students’ learning and healthy development both at home and at school, and have regular opportunities to strengthen their knowledge and skills to do so effectively.

Standard 4: Speaking up for every child—Families are empowered to be advocates for their own and other children, to ensure that students are treated fairly and have access to learning opportunities that will support their success.

Standard 5: Sharing power—Families and school staff are equal partners in decisions that affect children and families and together inform, influence and create policies, practices and programs.

Standard 6: Collaborating with community—Families and school staff collaborate with community members to connect students, families and staff to expanded learning opportunities, community services and civic participation.