Oceanside Parent University rolls out 'Let Grow' independence campaign, schedules AI workshop
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Summary
The district presented 'Let Grow', a Parent University initiative to build student independence across elementary, middle and high schools, showcased student videos and announced an AI workshop for parents on Jan. 13 featuring Dr. Fred Munch.
The Oceanside Union Free School District highlighted a districtwide Parent University initiative called "Let Grow" at its Dec. 17 Board of Education meeting, showcasing classroom activities, family engagement and plans for follow-up workshops.
Dr. Harrington described the campaign as a districtwide focus on giving students age-appropriate opportunities to practice independence. "The goal of this initiative was really very simple but powerful. It was to partner with families in supporting students' independence, confidence, and real world readiness at every developmental level," he said, introducing videos from elementary, middle and high school classrooms that showed students completing small independent tasks.
At the elementary level, staff and families used bingo-style choice boards for simple independent tasks; middle-school efforts emphasized role-playing and parent partnership; high-school work included an "independence form" prompting students to list practical adult skills they want to learn (paying bills, filing taxes, managing rent, handling emergencies). Public-school staff have organized adulting panels in the high school wellness center to provide experiential learning opportunities.
District leaders thanked Parent University organizers and named leaders and co-chairs, including Diane Pravito (assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction, referenced) and Lori Dawson (co-chair, parent representative). The district also announced an upcoming Parent University event: "Healthy Kids, Smart Schools: Navigating Artificial Intelligence at Home and in the Classroom" on Tuesday, Jan. 13. Dr. Harrington said Dr. Fred Munch will present practical guidance for parents, and attendees will be entered in a raffle (including an iPad and family-night baskets).
Dr. Harrington characterized Let Grow as a districtwide "mindset" rather than a one-size-fits-all program and said schools will continue posting photos and examples of family participation in school communications.
Next steps: registration for the AI workshop is open and the district will continue to publicize Parent University activities and resources to families and staff.