Not so long ago, many parents and educators thought that once children entered school, their education was best left to the professionals. After all, they were the ones trained to do the job.

Besides, modern teacher methods are so complex that parents would just get in the way. And what about parents who can barely read and write or understand English, what can they possibly contribute?

Now we know otherwise. Although our common sense may have whispered it all along, the research is overwhelmingly clear:

When parents are involved, children do better in school and they go to better schools.
This is true whether parents are college-educated or grade school graduates. What counts is that you have a positive attitude about how important a good education is, and express confidence that your children will succeed. (The effect is even more powerful among low income and minority families). Some of the major benefits researchers have found:

• higher grades and test scores, throughout a student's career
• positive attitudes and behaviour, for both students and teachers
• more successful academic programs
• more effective schools

It is clear that schools that value parent participation, there is higher achievement, more positive attitudes, and more effective programs. At Mt. Slesse Middle School, parental involvement is encouraged.

If you would like to take part, fill in the application form and either mail it to the school or bring it in person.

**Please note that while parental involvement is greatly encouraged, for safety reasons all persons serving as volunteers must complete a District Criminal Record Check form.