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District launches Parent University and men‑to‑mentor initiative; graduation and community partnerships planned
Summary
Student support services described Parent University attendance, a planned May 8 graduation for participating parents, and a new men‑to‑mentor program with quarterly workshops and a public kickoff planned for August.
Student support services officials briefed the board on Parent University and a new men‑to‑mentor initiative intended to boost family engagement and father/male‑caregiver involvement.
Director of Family & Community Engagement Deborah L. and manager Don Malone (named in the presentation) described Parent University as a nine‑week workshop series for families, funded and staffed through the district and community partnerships. Sessions include certified educators and community partners and provide childcare and transportation for participants; organizers said attendance peaked at 378 participants during one reporting period and that a culminating Parent University graduation is scheduled for May 8, with honored parents to receive framed awards and recognition at a future board meeting.
The men‑to‑mentor initiative, launched in January, seeks to provide skill‑building workshops, supports and community connections for fathers and male caregivers, culminating in a "Bring Your Dad/Male Caregiver to School Day" planned for Aug. 18, 2025. Program goals include increasing fathers’ school involvement, improving home‑learning practices and supporting student well‑being.
Why it matters: District leaders said both initiatives are part of the district’s strategy to boost family engagement — a research‑backed factor tied to student outcomes — and to connect families to college, workforce and health resources. Presenters noted community partnerships with higher‑education, health and civic organizations.
Next steps: Parent University will continue monthly sessions (April’s session on April 10 will include an on‑campus visit and college conversation at Harris‑Stowe State University). Men‑to‑mentor activities will include recruitment at the Saint Louis Marathon on April 26 and a slate of workshops in the spring and summer.
Ending: Board members praised the programs as tangible family supports and stressed continued collaboration and outreach to scale participation across schools.
