Definition

Effective two-way communication relies on families and educators having a variety of ways to receive and discuss information about students’ progress within and outside of the school environment. This ongoing process allows for meaningful interactions and authentic connections between schools and families that are focused on supporting student learning while meeting the unique situational, cultural, and linguistic needs of families.

What does it look like in practice?

a. Effective Communication Strategies:

• Schools have a system in place with multiple strategies to facilitate two-way communication with families and community members on a regular basis.
• Information is disseminated with enough time for families to respond or follow up appropriately as needed.
• Communication needs to be comprehensive and take place throughout the year and in different venues.
• Communications are respectful, honest, timely, and collaborative.

b. Communication Across Roles

• Educators, administrators, and families feel equally able to contact one another in support of a child’s learning and recognize that no single means of communication will be sufficient to meet the needs of all families.
• Families, students, and community members are regularly asked for their input regarding issues and concerns.

c. Culturally Proficient Communication

• Educators have an understanding of how the various cultures represented in their school view education and schooling practices so that they can engage in meaningful conversations with individuals of different backgrounds.
• School activities are representative of all families, and families feel safe sharing information about their child, family, culture, or experience to enhance student learning.

Definition

Family Engagement Practices and Initiatives: Core Principle 1: Creating a Welcoming Environment A welcoming school environment and culture is one that builds trust and connection among students, families, educators, and other stakeholders. It is responsive to individual strengths and needs and ensures that all members of the community feel like valued contributors to students’ academic achievement and healthy development.

What does it look like in practice?

1. Families have a personal relationship with one or more school staff members and feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and opinions.  
2. Families entering the school are greeted personally, have a clear sense of where to go, and find the overall environment inviting.  
3. Information about school and community programs related to child and family needs is available in common areas for families.  
4. There are opportunities for family members to participate in meaningful volunteer opportunities within the school.  
5. School activities for families are designed with the individual needs and interests of all families of the school and are unbiased towards the socioeconomic status, culture, language, or ability of the families in the school.