Education begins at home

Academic success in childhood often paves the way  for achievement later in life. Skills developed in the classroom extend well beyond test scores, shaping work habits, problem-solving abilities, and resilience. But while schools play a central role, the responsibility for education does not rest on teachers and administrators alone. It begins at home.

A growing body of research underscores the value of parental involvement in education. 

A 2020 study published in the Journal of Prevention and Intervention in the Community found that students whose parents were actively engaged in their schooling consistently performed at higher academic levels than those without such support. 

The benefits are not confined to one subject.

A 2005 report from Johns Hopkins University revealed that when schools encouraged families to support math learning at home, more students reached or exceeded proficiency on standardized exams. Other studies show similar gains in reading, language development, and broader learning outcomes.

This evidence points to a simple truth: children thrive when parents take an active role in their education. The question is not whether families should be involved, but how.

Several strategies are clear. Parents who maintain open communication with teachers are better positioned to identify areas where their children may need extra support. 

Those who strike the right balance — encouraging without overwhelming — help foster confidence and perseverance. Attendance at school functions, from conferences to open houses, signals to children that their education matters, while also building useful networks within the school community. 

Finally, establishing consistent routines at home provides structure, reducing stress and creating an environment where learning can take root.

Living in a rural community, Weston County residents have a unique opportunity to interact and know teachers outside of the school setting. We encourage parents to seize that opportunity, taking the time to not only know what your student is learning, but also to know the person teaching it. 

The path to student success is not forged by schools or families alone, but by both working in tandem. If education is indeed the foundation of opportunity, then parents, alongside educators, must ensure that foundation is strong.