Perry Central says Project Effect grant is strengthening parent voice and attendance efforts

Lacy Linton, elementary assistant principal, told the board that Perry Central serves as the rural model site for Project Effect, a state‑related program run by Insource that supports family engagement for districts across Indiana. "Project Effect didn't really change who we are. It just helped us become even more intentional," Linton said, describing the program’s emphasis on inviting parents into decision‑making and adding academic components to family events.

Presenters said their two highest priorities were increasing trust with families and decreasing chronic absenteeism. They described regional stakeholder groups — a parent advisory structure — that currently include about 10–15 regular parents and that the district plans to expand to ensure representation across elementary and junior/senior high populations. The staff emphasized sustained professional development (book studies, consultant training) and simpler, unified communication platforms to reduce fragmentation across ClassDojo, Remind and other tools.

During Q&A a board member asked about parent participation; presenters confirmed strong turnout at traditional events such as back‑to‑school cookouts and noted more consistent involvement in events that include an academic piece. The presenters said the district surveys parents after family events to capture feedback and refine practices. They said two more years of grant funding remain, and the district is planning to sustain practices after the grant ends.