Why Parents’ Voices Matter in Education

Parents should always have a voice in their children’s education

As parents, we know our children better than anyone.

We know when they’re having a great day. We know when something doesn’t seem right. We know what they’re interested in, what motivates them and sometimes, when they’re struggling, even when they haven’t said a word.

That’s why I believe parents need to have a meaningful voice in their children’s education.

Schools and educators have an incredibly important perspective. They see our children in a learning environment every day, and their experience and expertise are essential.

But parents bring something different to the table.

We see our children outside of the classroom. We know their history, their personalities and the things that may be affecting them at home.

When those perspectives come together, students benefit.

I don’t think parent engagement should only happen when there is a problem. Families should feel welcome to communicate with their school throughout their child’s education.

And communication needs to go both ways.

Parents should understand what is happening at their child’s school, and schools should have opportunities to hear what families are experiencing.

That doesn’t mean every parent will agree with every decision. That’s okay.

Listening doesn’t mean agreeing.

It means making sure people have an opportunity to be heard and that their concerns are considered respectfully.

As a trustee, I would want to be accessible to families and hear directly from the community. Newmarket is a large and diverse community, and I don’t believe decisions should be made without understanding how they affect the students and families we serve.

Our schools belong to our communities.

And parents are an important part of those communities.

When we listen to one another, keep the conversation respectful and stay focused on what is best for students, I believe we can accomplish much more.

Parents should never feel that their voice doesn’t matter when it comes to their child’s education.