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District outlines expanded family engagement programs and parent ambassador growth
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Summary
District leaders described 714 family engagement opportunities this year, extensive ESL offerings and a parent‑ambassador (PELs) program that grew from 5 to 39 participants; presenters emphasized workshops, digital literacy and partnerships to remove barriers to participation.
District staff on March 9 presented a detailed update on family and parent engagement work that officials said aims to broaden access to workshops and supports across all 14 school sites.
Doris Strand, identified as director of student support services, said the district provided 384 workshops this year and 330 ESL classes across seven sites, tallying 714 family engagement opportunities districtwide. Strand described workshops on nutrition, conscious discipline for early grades, digital literacy and monthly wellness topics delivered by district social workers.
Rose Lazo, the district community liaison, said the Parent Ambassador program (PELs) expanded from five parents in 2025 to 39 across 11 schools in 2026, calling the program a way to build leadership and share training across communities. Lazo described new offerings such as "Connected and Protected" digital‑safety sessions and a Kaiser mothers‑and‑daughters series planned for April.
Presenters also previewed the draft district family and parent engagement policy, which they said emphasizes accessibility, community partnerships, staff capacity building, inclusive communications and flexible scheduling to remove participation barriers. They invited trustees and the public to open houses and school events, including Cortada's living schoolyard opening on March 31.
Why it matters Officials said stronger family engagement supports students' academic progress and helps families navigate district systems. Staff highlighted investment in adult education (ESL and digital skills), nutrition programming and parent leadership to extend outreach into neighborhoods.
What happens next District staff said they will continue rolling out workshops, finalize the engagement policy in coming meetings and bring additional implementation details to the board.
