Parent Universities: Increasing Family Engagement for Student Success
Parental engagement makes a powerful difference in a child's education. Research consistently shows that when parents get involved, students earn better grades, stay in school longer, and are more likely to pursue higher education.[1] When parents actively participate by attending school events, communicating with teachers, and supporting learning at home, students of all backgrounds benefit.
Recognizing this impact, Parent Universities and Be Strong Families have partnered to strengthen family engagement in three school districts in Illinois.
Parent Universities in Action: Three Real-life Examples
Three districts –Skokie School District 69, Oswego Community School District 308, and U-46 in Elgin – successfully collaborated with Be Strong Families to expand parent involvement.
Their initiatives included Parent Cafés and other parent-themed resources like custom t-shirts, snack bags, tote bags, mugs, posters, and cards. These tangible reminders reinforce the importance of parental involvement and celebrate participation. Plus, who doesn’t appreciate a little swag?
Skokie School District 69: Expanding Access and Inclusion
To strengthen family and community engagement, Skokie School District 69 has partnered with Be Strong Families to offer Parent Leadership Training, equipping parents with the skills to host onsite Parent Cafés. Over a three-year period, District 69 held three Parent Leadership Training opportunities where more than 50 parents have completed the 18-hour certification, empowering them to lead discussions and support fellow caregivers.
With the support of federal funding, the district hosts bi-monthly Parent Cafés, creating a safe and inclusive space for parents to share experiences, build connections, and access valuable resources. On average, 20 parents attend each session. As one parent shared—
“This is a thoughtful, well-facilitated space where families can gather to connect, eat together, talk with one another, learn and understand our differences, and share our hopes and dreams for our children. I am very grateful for the Parent Cafés.”
To enhance accessibility, District 69 offers childcare, meals, translation services, and stipends for parent leaders, ensuring families from all backgrounds can participate. Parent Cafés remain a vital engagement effort, helping families connect, learn, and grow together.
Image: District 69 Parents Cafe Leaders hosting a parent cafe titled, “Teens, Tweens & Technology”
Oswego Community Unit School District 308: A Village Approach
“Our goal is to equip caregivers with the tools, knowledge, and confidence they need to be the best version of themselves. By fostering a strong support network, we ensure that every family feels valued, connected, and empowered to thrive within our community.”
In collaboration with Parent University Savannah, GA, and guided by Be Strong Families’ Strengthening Families Protective Factors framework, the district is committed to breaking down barriers to parent participation. To ensure accessibility for all families, they provide essential support services, including childcare, light snacks and refreshments, professional translation services, and engaging activities for children during sessions.
Parent Universities serve as a cornerstone of the district’s family engagement strategy, fostering a strong sense of community and reinforcing their belief that true student success is achieved together – embodying the district’s powerful motto: "It Takes a Village.
As part of the Parent University framework, Oswego integrates Be Strong Families’ materials into participant “swag bags,” ensuring families have access to valuable resources that promote engagement and support.
Oswego also actively collaborates with neighboring school systems and community organizations to strengthen its impact and reach. The district is also expanding its Spanish-language programming to better serve diverse families.
U-46 (Elgin, IL): Sustained Impact Through Parent Cafés
U-46 Multilingual and Multicultural Education Department partnered with Be Strong Families to train selected middle and elementary school staff to host Parent Cafés.
The district continues to offer these Cafés six years later, providing parents with a space
to connect, share experiences, and strengthen their roles in their children's education.
What Are Parent Universities?
Parent Universities are educational programs designed to support parents and caregivers in engaging more effectively in their children’s education. They can be hosted by school districts, community colleges, or local universities and offer workshops on topics like child development, homework strategies, and navigating school systems.
These programs are often funded through Title I, which includes parent engagement requirements, and many provide multilingual resources to serve diverse communities. While there is no central governing body, Parent Universities across the country share a common goal: empowering parents as partners in education.
Let’s Boost Your Parent Involvement…and Student Success
Research shows that school-family partnerships increase student performance. Parent Cafés build these relationships and support better outcomes for students and families in your community.
Are you part of a Parent University or school parent engagement program? Let’s talk about how we can increase student achievement in your schools with Parent Cafés. Contact us at info@bestrongfamilies.net!
[1] According to research, students with involved parents achieve higher academic outcomes, regardless of ethnic background and income level. Students with more involved parents also attend school more regularly, have better social skills, and are more likely to go on to postsecondary education. Lastly, more family and community involvement activities implemented meant fewer students were disciplined by getting sent to the principal’s office or given detention.