Parent University

Important Announcements

Register for May 5 Parent University session

Parent U satellite learning sessions for 2011-2012

Volunteers needed for 2011-2012 Parent University sessions

Parent University graduation requirements:

In order to graduate from Parent University participants need to earn 10 points within a school year. For this year only (2011-2012), participants who did not graduate may carry over points from last year. For more information please email Parent University at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call 617-635-1683 and leave a detailed message with your name, phone number and your dates of attendance.

Parent U in Pictures

Fall 2011 session

Take a peek at the photos from the BPS Parent University Fall 2011 session and share with your Facebook and Twitter friends. Don't forget to tell us what you think about Parent U on the comment section.

Featured News

ABC's Moms Get Real with Juju Chang

Watch Michele Brooks, BPS Assistant Superintendent for Family and Student Engagement, and other panelists discussing how Parent University sharpens parents’ skills to help their children with homework.

Part I: Homework Help For Parents - Tips to end the frustration

Part II: Homework headaches? Parent University offers guides to sharpen their skills

NECN: Parent University begins in Boston

(NECN) - In Boston, it's back to school for parents. The Boston Public Schools held its first session of Parent University.

Parent University featured on Good Morning America

BPS’ popular Parent University was featured on ABC’s Good Morning America as one of the excellent initiatives implemented by the District to help parents ‘catch up when their kids' homework is over their head’.

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Overview

What is Parent University?

Parent University is an opportunity for parents to sharpen their skills as they work in one of life's most important and demanding roles. Parent University provides parents and caregivers with information about their vital responsibility in shaping children's lives. Sessions focus on child development, what children are learning in schools, advocacy, parent leadership and effective parenting skills. All parents and caregivers are invited.

How does Parent University Work?

The University offers 3 day-long Saturday learning sessions in October, January and May, with additional sessions offered throughout the year at schools, libraries and community centers. Parent University is free for all BPS parents.

In June, there will be a Parent University graduation for parents who have completed the required set of learning sessions.

Program

What Will I Learn at Parent University?

Parent University learning sessions are focused in four areas that support parents in ways that empower them to be leaders and advocates for student learning and school improvement.

Parents are Teachers – provides a clearer understanding of how children grow and learn and the teaching and learning approaches used in BPS

Parents are Advocates – builds capacity to advocate for children, understand the standards and expectations for learning, and support learning at home

Parents are Leaders – helps parents build the skills necessary to assume leadership roles in schools and the community

Parents are Learners – provides parents with the opportunity to build upon their own skills for personal and professional growth

WHAT THE RESEARCH SAYS

When parents are involved in the educational process, students achieve more, regardless of socioeconomic status, ethnic/racial background, or the parent's level of education.

Adapted from 2002 National Center for School Engagement

Upcoming Parent University Sessions

8:30am - 3:30pm, January 28, 2012

8:30am - 3:30pm, May 5, 2012

Parent U Collaborative
Boston Campaign for Proficiency Boston Parent Organizing Network East Boston Collaborative for Families Families First Parenting Programs Boston Public Health Commission BMC HealthNet BPS Department of Extended Learning Time, Afterschool & Services	Family Nurturing Center Mass PIRC Thrive in Five Healthy Baby Healthy Child BPS Homeless Education Resource Network Boston Chinatown Neighborhood Center Boston Children's Hospital