As summer fades, back-to-school season brings a new rhythm—and a new set of challenges—for parents, schools, and workplaces. Parents are often juggling supply lists, class schedules, extracurricular activities, and work responsibilities, all at once.
A 2021 study by the Boston Consulting Group and Catalyst found that companies with strong family-supportive practices had 63% higher retention among working parents and improved employee engagement across the board. Yet, many workplaces and schools still separate parents’ identities as caregivers from their roles as professionals, putting them in the impossible position of choosing between their child and their job.
Drawing from feedback from over 1 million parents across 40 states, Possip offers 20 proven ideas for schools and organizations to engage and support parents during this season.
We’d love to support you in all of these areas.
10 Ideas for Schools to Engage Parents
1. Clarify Calendars and Expectations
Provide clear, accessible calendars and expectations early. Transparency reduces anxiety for parents.
2. Ask Parents How They Want Information
Communication channels matter—offer surveys to learn if families prefer texts, emails, or print.
3. Offer a Beginning-of-Year Survey
Hearing from parents sets a tone of partnership. It builds trust and engagement from day one.
4. Create a Structured Parent Engagement Plan
In 2023, Family Engagement was the top national feedback theme from parents. Create a structured plan to harness their willingness to engage.
5. Host Back-to-School Welcome Sessions
These informal gatherings allow parents to meet teachers and staff, ask questions, and feel welcomed.
6. Provide “Cheat Sheets” for School Systems
Quick guides on key contacts, schedules, and procedures make schools feel more approachable.
7. Recognize Parents as Partners in Learning
Invite parents to collaborate—not just attend events. Include them in discussions about goals and strategies. You can start with providing resources like these:
- 8 Ways to Make Back-to-School Enjoyable for Everyone – Possip.
- Back to School: How Parents Can Support Kids (and Their Teachers!) – Possip
8. Use Multiple Languages
Communicate in the primary languages of your parent community. It increases understanding and inclusion.
9. Share Wins Regularly
Highlight student and school achievements throughout the year, not just at the end.
10. Encourage Two-Way Feedback Loops
Don’t just push information out—make it easy for parents to share their perspectives throughout the year.
10 Ideas for Companies to Engage Working Parents
1. Offer Flexible Policies
Flexible work arrangements (shift swaps, personal days, hybrid options) help parents balance responsibilities.
2. Provide Parenting PD (Professional Development)
Offer sessions on topics such as positive discipline, supporting learning at home, or managing stress.
3. Create Employee Resource Groups for Parents
Internal parent groups foster connection and mutual support.
4. Understand Local School Calendars
Anticipate key dates like early dismissals or testing weeks to help parents plan ahead.
5. Normalize “Family First” Culture
Leaders who model family-friendly behavior set the tone for supportive policies.
6. Offer Back-to-School Mini-Grants
Help offset costs for supplies or tutoring through small stipends.
7. Host Lunch & Learns for Parents
Create sessions where parents can share strategies, network, and build community.
8. Provide Quiet Zones or “Family Rooms”
These spaces can be lifesavers for emergencies or temporary care needs.
9. Recognize Back-to-School as a Business Cycle
Adjust workloads during August/September when families need flexibility most.
10. Celebrate Parent Achievements at Work
Highlight the dual role parents play, appreciating their balancing act.
Why It Matters
Parent engagement isn’t just a nice-to-have. It:
- Improves student outcomes
- Strengthens employee retention
- Builds trust and loyalty in communities
As back-to-school season kicks off, small efforts from both schools and companies can have a big impact.
