WESTERN ELEMENTARY LAUNCHES FAMILY ENGAGEMENT EVENTS TO BOOST STUDENT SUCCESS

BARRY — Western Elementary School is rolling out two new family engagement initiatives this month designed to strengthen the partnership between parents and the classroom. School leaders say the goal is simple: when families are involved, students succeed.

The first initiative, called Family Fridays, will take place on the last Friday of each month and invites parents into the school to participate directly in classroom activities with their children. Principal Ernest Motley says seeing parents actively involved sends a powerful message to students about the value of learning.

“When kids see that their parents are coming to school with them, whether they’re showing projects or sitting down and reading or doing an activity together, that signals that learning is important,” Motley said.

The second event, Together at the Table, is scheduled for February 25 and will provide a free dinner for families. The event is designed to encourage meaningful conversation and consistent family time, even in busy households.

School counselor Stefanie Rennecker says research shows that even short, regular conversations can make a significant difference in a child’s academic and emotional development.

“Twenty minutes a day, five times a week — no matter what time of day it is — having that conversation with your kids has an immense amount of benefits for both adults and children,” Rennecker said.

Rennecker added that regular family meals can positively impact both mental and physical health, while also reinforcing social skills and academic habits. She emphasized that when parents engage in schoolwork, read with their children, or simply show up at school events, it models the importance of education.

School leaders hope the new programs will build stronger connections between families and educators, creating a support system that extends beyond the classroom walls and helps students thrive both academically and socially.

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