District enhances parental engagement and communication strategies for student success

The D2 Board of Education meeting held on December 12, 2024, focused on several key topics aimed at enhancing communication and engagement between the district and families. The meeting began with a discussion on the importance of parental support for the district's core beliefs, particularly in fostering a belief in student excellence and embracing diversity.

A significant highlight was the improvement in the district's facilities and curb appeal, which has reportedly increased by over 10% in the past five years. Currently, 94% of students express pride in their school environments, a testament to the efforts of the Bond team.

The conversation then shifted to the need for better communication with parents regarding student achievements. Board members emphasized the importance of proactive outreach, suggesting that schools implement practices such as sending at least one positive email or making one positive phone call per week to parents. This initiative aims to ensure that parents are informed not only when issues arise but also when their children excel academically.

The meeting also addressed the accessibility of academic performance data for parents, particularly at the elementary level. Board members discussed the limitations of the current system, noting that while parents of middle and high school students can access grades through Infinite Campus, elementary parents may not have the same access due to the use of standards-based report cards. There was a consensus on the need to improve communication about how parents can engage with the system to monitor their children's progress.

Additionally, the board acknowledged that parental engagement tends to decrease as students progress through grades. Strategies were proposed to encourage parents to stay involved, including reminders about accessing grades and communicating with teachers. The board recognized the necessity of bridging the gap between parents and the school, particularly for secondary students, to prevent academic issues from escalating.

In conclusion, the D2 Board of Education meeting underscored the district's commitment to enhancing communication with families and fostering a supportive educational environment. The board plans to implement several initiatives aimed at improving parental engagement and ensuring that parents are well-informed about their children's academic journeys.